France: Thonon Black Panthers land elite QB Mateo Renteria for 2026
The Thonon Black Panthers have made a major splash in the French D1 Elite offseason, announcing the signing of prolific American quarterback Mateo Renteria for the 2026 campaign.
Dominant 2025 campaign in Austria
Renteria’s most recent season saw him deliver a spectacular 2025 campaign with the Graz Giants in the Austrian Football League. He led the league’s #1 offense with impressive numbers: 1,943 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, the league’s top completion percentage, an outstanding 14.9 yards per completion, and a remarkable 93.2 QBR that demonstrated his elite efficiency and command of the offense.
Productive 2024 stint in Sweden
Prior to his dominant season in Austria, Renteria spent part of the 2024 season with the Stockholm Mean Machines in the Swedish Superserien. Before suffering a season-ending injury, he delivered outstanding numbers with 942 passing yards and 12 touchdowns in just five regular season games. He also excelled in the Central European Football League, guiding Stockholm to a 42-14 victory over the Manchester Titans and a narrow 29-27 loss to La Courneuve Flash, throwing for 542 yards with a 72% completion rate in those two contests.
The French connection in 2023
Renteria’s European journey began during the 2023 season with the Saint-Ouen Cougars in France, where he remarkably served as both starting quarterback and offensive coordinator. His dual role involved handling play installation, scheme design, play-calling, and film breakdown, showcasing the football IQ that makes him such a valuable addition to the Black Panthers.
A record-setting foundation
Renteria’s excellence stretches back to his collegiate days at the College of Wooster (NCAA Div. III), where he was a four-year starter. He shattered school records, throwing for over 10,000 career yards and 78 touchdowns, and was a two-time All-Conference selection. By securing Renteria, the Thonon Black Panthers aren’t just getting a quarterback; they’re installing a proven leader and winner to helm their offense for the future.
