Vikings Add NFL Veteran Stewart Jr. To Bolster European Football Ambitions
VIENNA – The Vienna Vikings have made a significant splash in the European League of Football (ELF) offseason, securing the services of wide receiver Darrell Stewart Jr., a player with NFL experience and a proven track record of success on the continent. The move, announced February 22, 2026, signals the Vikings’ intent to contend for the European crown in the upcoming season.
A Proven Offensive Weapon
Stewart Jr., 29, brings a wealth of experience to Vienna, having previously played for the Green Bay Packers and Carolina Panthers in the NFL. Before arriving in Europe in 2021, he honed his skills at Michigan State University. Since then, he’s quickly established himself as one of the most productive receivers in the European game, with stints at the Dresden Monarchs, Stuttgart Surge and most recently, the Wroclaw Panthers.
His versatility is a key asset; Stewart isn’t just a threat catching passes, but also as a return specialist. He’s consistently demonstrated an ability to impact games in multiple facets, making him a true “difference maker” according to those who have coached him.
Reunited with a Familiar Face
A significant factor in Stewart’s decision to join the Vikings was the presence of Offensive Coordinator Jordan Neuman. The two previously worked together in Stuttgart, where they enjoyed a successful partnership. Neuman clearly holds Stewart in high regard, stating, “Darrell Stewart has been one of the top offensive weapons in all of Europe since he arrived in Germany back in 2021. It’s exciting to reunite with ‘DJ’ and build off the two years we have already spent together. He brings a lot to a football team both on and off the field, which makes this a great signing for Vienna on many levels.”
Stewart himself echoed that sentiment, expressing his enthusiasm for the organization’s culture. “I love the family-style organization and the culture of dominance and winning,” he said. “I expect to add to the organization in every way possible, also becoming the best I ever been.”
Building an Explosive Offense
The addition of Stewart Jr. Significantly strengthens an already promising Vikings offense. He joins a core group that includes quarterback Ben Holmes, who recently extended his contract with the team, and star running back Karri Pajarinen.
The Vikings’ offensive depth also includes players like Noah Toure, Emil Eckerstorfer, offensive lineman Lukas Holub, and NFL veteran Bernhard Seikovits. This combination of established players and emerging talent positions the Vikings as a force to be reckoned with in the ELF.
Stewart Jr. Impressed in his most recent season with the Wroclaw Panthers, recording 89 receptions for 1,098 yards and 13 touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to consistently produce at a high level. His arrival in Vienna is expected to provide Holmes with a reliable and dynamic target, further elevating the Vikings’ passing attack.
The Vikings are nearing completion of their American player roster, with only one spot remaining open. The team’s focus now shifts to integrating Stewart Jr. Into the offense and preparing for the challenges of the upcoming season.
The Vienna Vikings are clearly signaling their ambition to return to the top of European football. With a potent offense led by Stewart Jr. And a strong core of returning players, they are poised to make a serious run at the ELF championship in 2026.
The team will continue preparations throughout the spring, with details on preseason schedules and training camp to be announced shortly. Fans can follow the Vienna Vikings’ progress on their official website: https://viennavikings.football/en/news/team/671.
