The NFL is experiencing a major boom and the Cincinnati Bengals are right in the middle of it. With a record nine international games set to be played outside the United States in 2026, the league is expanding its reach like never before. And nowhere is this expansion more evident than in Europe, with countries like London, Germany, Spain, and France all eagerly embracing the sport.
One player who has taken full advantage of this international growth is former Cincinnati Bengals UDFA (undrafted free agent) Jordan Franks. After spending two seasons with the Bengals, Franks made the bold decision to take his game to Germany, signing with the Frankfurt Galaxy of the European League of Football (ELF).
For Franks, this was an opportunity to not only continue playing the sport he loves, but also to be a part of the NFL’s global expansion. And so far, he has not disappointed. In his first season with the Galaxy, Franks has become a key player on the team, showcasing his skills and proving that he belongs on the field.
But Franks’ journey to Germany was not an easy one. After going undrafted in the 2018 NFL Draft, he signed with the Bengals as a free agent and spent the next two seasons trying to make a name for himself in the league. Despite his hard work and determination, he was released by the Bengals in 2020. But instead of giving up on his dream, Franks saw this as an opportunity to take his game to a new level.
And that’s exactly what he has done in Germany. Franks has quickly become a fan favorite, not only for his impressive on-field performances, but also for his positive attitude and dedication to the sport. He has embraced the German culture and has even started learning the language, showing his commitment to making the most of this experience.
But Franks is not the only one benefitting from this international expansion. The NFL has also seen a significant increase in its global fan base, with more and more people tuning in to watch games and support their favorite teams. This has opened up new opportunities for players like Franks, who may not have had a chance to play in the NFL, but are now able to showcase their talents on an international stage.
The NFL’s expansion into Europe has also had a positive impact on the local communities. In countries like Germany, where American football is still a relatively new sport, the presence of an NFL team has sparked interest and excitement among the locals. This has not only brought in new fans, but also created job opportunities and boosted the economy.
But the NFL’s global expansion is not just limited to Europe. The league has also been making strides in other parts of the world, including Mexico, Canada, and China. This has not only helped to grow the sport, but also fostered cultural exchange and understanding between different countries.
As for Franks, he is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this international growth and is determined to make the most of it. He hopes to continue playing in Germany for as long as possible and eventually make his way back to the NFL. But for now, he is focused on helping the Frankfurt Galaxy win the ELF championship and making a name for himself in the international football scene.
In conclusion, the NFL’s expansion into Europe and other parts of the world has been a major success, with the Cincinnati Bengals and players like Jordan Franks playing a crucial role in this growth. As the league continues to expand its reach, it is not only creating new opportunities for players, but also bringing people from different cultures together through the love of football. And with the passion and dedication of players like Franks, the future of the NFL’s global expansion looks brighter than ever.
