Former Bengals Quarterback Rocky Lombardi Signs with Dresden Monarchs

Dresden, Germany – The Dresden Monarchs of the German Football League (GFL) have bolstered their roster with the signing of quarterback Rocky Lombardi, the team announced today, March 5, 2026. Lombardi, who has experience in both the NFL and the United Football League (UFL), is expected to lead the Monarchs’ offense in the upcoming 2026 season.

The Monarchs are coming off a strong season where they reached the GFL-Bowl, the league’s championship game, but ultimately fell short of claiming the title. Lombardi’s arrival signals a clear intent to finish the job and bring a championship back to Dresden.

A Proven Football Background

Offense Coordinator Robert Cruse expressed his enthusiasm for the signing, stating, “In the past years, we’ve always had particularly good quarterbacks in Dresden. We hold ourselves to that standard. What we’ve seen from Rocky has immediately convinced us. It’s a privilege for us as coaches to perform with players of this caliber. Rocky brings physicality, experience, understanding of the game, and the right leadership mentality. We are convinced that he is a very good fit for us, and we appear forward to working together.”

Lombardi’s football journey began in Clive, Iowa, where he excelled at Valley High School. He was a three-star recruit and earned a scholarship to Michigan State University (FBS Div. I). From 2018 to 2021, he gained valuable experience at the highest level of college football, throwing for 1,902 passing yards and 11 touchdowns in 22 games for the Spartans.

He continued his collegiate career at the University of Northern Illinois (FBS Div. I) for three more years, starting 29 games and achieving even greater success. At Northern Illinois, Lombardi recorded 31 touchdowns and 5,516 passing yards. He led the Huskies to the Mid-American Championship (MAC) in 2021 and secured two Bowl titles in subsequent seasons.

From College to the Pros

In April 2024, Lombardi signed with the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent, gaining valuable experience in the NFL. While behind starting quarterback Joe Burrow, he saw playing time during the preseason. This experience led to him being drafted by the Michigan Panthers in the UFL later that year.

Lombardi’s lineage is steeped in football tradition. He is the son of Tony Lombardi, a football coach and scout with over 30 years of experience, and the grandson of Bob Lombardi, a member of the Illinois High School Football Hall of Fame. This football pedigree undoubtedly contributes to his understanding and passion for the game.

Looking Ahead: Lombardi’s Goals in Dresden

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to play for the Dresden Monarchs next season,” Lombardi said. “The two final appearances in the past two years show that great work is being done here. I know that the longing for the second title is very great, and that is exactly my goal. I want to give the fans at home in Dresden the championship.”

The Dresden Monarchs play in the effect®️ ENERGY GFL, a competitive league that is attracting increasing attention from NFL players. The league’s growing popularity reflects the expanding global reach of American football, with the NFL itself planning a record nine international games in 2026. As reported by Heavy.com, Lombardi is part of a growing trend of NFL players seeking opportunities in European leagues.

The Monarchs’ pursuit of a championship will be closely watched by fans throughout Germany and beyond. Lombardi’s experience and leadership are expected to be key factors in their quest for success. The team will be looking to build on their previous success and finally secure the GFL title.

The addition of Lombardi represents a significant investment in the Monarchs’ future and underscores their commitment to competing at the highest level. Fans in Dresden are eagerly anticipating the start of the 2026 season and the opportunity to observe Lombardi lead the team onto the field.

The Monarchs will be hoping Lombardi can replicate the success of former NFL players who have found success in European leagues, such as Reece Horn, who played for the Vienna Vikings. The influx of NFL talent is raising the overall level of competition in leagues like the GFL and attracting even more attention to the sport.

Next up for the Dresden Monarchs is the start of the 2026 season, with the schedule to be released in the coming weeks. Keep an eye on the Monarchs’ official website for updates and further information.

What are your thoughts on the Monarchs’ signing of Rocky Lombardi? Share your predictions for the 2026 GFL season in the comments below!