Andreas Knappe, 25, has become the first Dane to sign for an NFL team since Morten Andersen 35 years ago way back in 1982.
The UConn product, who is nicknamed ‘Thor’ due to his imposing size and flowing blonde locks, wasn’t picked by any teams during the 2017 NFL Draft over the weekend, but instead inked a free agent deal with the Atlanta Falcons immediately following the draft on Saturday.
Andersen, who himself reached a Super Bowl with Atlanta in 1999, was quick to dish out the plaudits for Knappe on Twitter.
“Big congratulations to Andreas@Thegreatdane02 Knappe. Welcome to the ATL:),” the NFL legend wrote.
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Long road ahead
With his 2.06 metres in height and 134 kilos in weight, Knappe is expected to play offensive tackle for the Falcons if he makes the final roster for next season. And making the final 53 presents a massive challenge for the big Dane.
He wasn’t selected in the draft itself and will have to prove himself during pre-season to make the team. Currently, there are about 90 players vying for a final roster spot, so Knappe will have to prove himself or face being cut before the season starts.
In other words, there is still a lot to do before Knappe can suit up for his first set of downs for Atlanta next season.