Vikings strengthen defensive line with Finnish talent Malek Jaradat
The Vienna Vikings have added another piece to their defensive line, signing young Finnish defensive lineman Malek Jaradat. At just 21 years old, Jaradat is one of the youngest players on the Vikings roster, but his performances in Finland have already shown that he is ready to take the next step.
A decorated young talent from Finland
Jaradat built his reputation with the Helsinki Roosters, where he established himself as one of the most promising young linemen in Finnish football. His talent was recognised when he was named Finnish Youth Player of the Year in 2023, and he followed that up by winning the national championship in the Maple League in 2024. Those achievements at such a young age point to a player with a bright future ahead of him.
Ready to level up
For Jaradat, signing with the Vikings was about taking his game to a higher level. „I have played in Finland my whole career and I felt like I needed to step up my game more to level up in the sport, and then the Vikings hit me up and made me an offer to play in the AFLE this year, so of course I picked up this great opportunity,“ he said.
His confidence in the team is equally clear. „I’m very confident in the team and how everything is going and I believe we are the best team in all of Europe. This feels like our year to win it all.“
Looking forward to Vienna
Beyond the football, Jaradat is also excited about the experience of living and playing in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. „I hope to learn a lot from the veteran players and also to see where my own level is regarding football. Also I’m looking forward to enjoy the summer in the beautiful city of Vienna,“ he added.
With Jaradat on board, the Vienna Vikings add a hungry and talented young player to their defensive line as they continue to build a complete roster ahead of the 2026 season.
