Las Vegas Raiders fullback Jakob Johnson has spoken about the development of the NFL in Germany in a podcast. In doing so, he raves about the German fanbase and compares the situation with the past.

Munich – Jakob Johnson raves about the development the NFL has taken in Germany. Speaking on the Las Vegas Raiders podcast Upon Further Review, the German fullback talked about how the standing of American football has changed in this country.

“I don’t think most US Americans can even comprehend what it means for NFL fans in Germany,” the ex-New England Patriots player told podcast host Eddie Paskal in reference to the first NFL game on German soil in Munich. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, led by Tom Brady, will play the Seattle Seahawks.

Johnson: “We used to have to fight for TV games “

“A few years ago we had to fight to watch NFL games live on TV. Today, we have regular broadcasts and the German fan base is growing like crazy,” marvels Johnson, who will play for the Las Vegas Raiders next season.

Before in front of the TV, now in the middle of it! @jakobjohnson pic.twitter.com/wi2Psvkob9

– NFL Germany (@NFLDeutschland) June 4, 2022

The 27-year-old has a thing for German fans anyway. “There were always a lot of Germans at the London Games and there were always a lot of Germans flying to the games in the USA,” said Johnson proudly and added: “Last season, at every game – whether home or away – there was a group of fans on site who had a German flag with them. “

Johnson on NFL in Germany: “Helps our sport “

When asked if the development with the first NFL game in Germany was foreseeable for Johnson, the fullback replied: “No, I could never have imagined that the NFL would come to Germany one day. At that time it was clear that football would be played in the USA.

But (fortunately) the NFL recognised the potential in Europe early enough. “In the past few years, they added all the programmes that helped to bring players, fans and talent from Europe on board as well. The NFL has recognised the opportunity – and that helps our sport,” Johnson summed up.