From LFA’s First-Overall Pick to the AFLE – Abraham Chacón’s journey to Europe
The Firenze Red Lions have made a statement by signing Abraham Chacón as the first player in franchise history. The Mexican standout arrives in Europe with high expectations, a strong résumé, and the ambition to leave his mark on the growing American Football scene Europe as part of the AFLE.
From Mexico to Europe: Abraham Chacón’s journey
Chacón’s path to Europe is built on years of development in Mexico’s competitive football system. A product of Burros Blancos IPN, he quickly established himself as one of the country’s top prospects. His rise peaked in being selected first overall in the 2025 LFA Draft, a milestone he describes with pride: “Thank God I was able to become the number one pick in the LFA in 2025. It was an honor to represent my institution and my home team.”
His dominance at the national level, combined with multiple selections to the Mexican national team and even a Hall of Fame induction in 2024, underlines the level of international talent he now brings to Europe.
I-Import = X-Factor?
Chacón joins Firenze under the league’s I-Import rule, which allows teams to sign one international player from Canada, Mexico, or Japan with at least two years of experience in the respective tackle football system per season. The goal is to increase the global reach of the sport while raising the level of competition.
For Chacón, this opportunity was decisive. “The creation of AFLE and its rules provided that opportunity for I-imports; it was the motivation I’d been waiting for,” he explains. His signing is not just a personal step forward, but also a symbolic one for Mexican football.
Physical, Smart, Disciplined
On the field, Chacón brings a classic trench-player mentality: physical, aggressive, and highly disciplined. He describes himself as “a very disciplined player in all aspects, aggressive in the trenches, and above all, a player with high IQ when it comes to reading defenses.”
This combination of physicality and football IQ makes him a valuable asset in both the run game and pass protection, giving the Red Lions a reliable presence on the line of scrimmage.
Representing Mexico on a European Stage
As the only Mexican player currently in the league, Chacón understands the weight of his role. “It is an honor and a responsibility to represent Mexico in Europe,” he says. “It is an opportunity to showcase how Mexicans work, the quality we possess.”
His move could open doors for more talent from Mexico to follow, making him a pioneer in many ways.
A New Chapter with the Firenze Red Lions
For Chacón, joining the Red Lions is about more than football. It’s about embracing a new culture and chasing a long-held dream. “Living and playing there is a dream come true,” he says about his move to Italy. His ambitions are clear and team-focused: bringing success to Firenze. With his experience, mindset, and determination, Abraham Chacón has the tools to become a cornerstone for the Red Lions, and a name European fans should quickly get to know.
