Steven Krajewski wants to bring Raiders Tirol back to the top
Steven Krajewski’s journey to Europe started differently than originally planned. The quarterback stepped into the starting role for Raiders Tirol after the franchise had initially planned with quarterback Tyler Knoop. Still, shortly before his first EFA game, the 26 year old appears calm, prepared, and fully convinced that Raiders Tirol are ready for a successful season.
“In football, it’s always the next man up mentality,” Krajewski explained. Throughout the recruiting process, communication with Raiders Tirol never completely stopped. Even after the franchise initially decided to go in another direction, the organization continued to express how highly they thought of him. When the situation eventually changed, Krajewski was ready to step in. At the same time, the quarterback emphasized that he personally feels bad for Tyler Knoop, but is now fully focused on his new opportunity. “I’m prepared to take this organization to new heights,” Krajewski said.
The American quarterback only recently started looking seriously into European football. After NFL workouts and not receiving the call he hoped for from the NFL, Krajewski began researching opportunities outside the United States. During that process, he quickly realized the level of football being played in Europe. “I realized there is really good football over here,” the quarterback explained. Conversations with former teammates who had played internationally also helped influence his decision. In the end, Krajewski consciously chose Europe and specifically Raiders Tirol. One of the biggest reasons was the professionalism of the organization. “The professionalism here was just on another level,” the signal caller said.
On the field, Krajewski describes himself as a hybrid style quarterback. “I’m not a full pocket passer and I’m not a full dual threat quarterback either,” he explained. Instead, he sees himself somewhere in between those two styles. The 26 year old especially expressed confidence in his arm strength and current mechanics. At the same time, he emphasized that the chemistry with his receivers and offensive line has developed quickly during the first weeks with the team.
Krajewski has also been highly impressed by the overall quality within Raiders Tirol. While he had already done extensive research on the franchise before signing and knew the organization’s reputation in European football, he admitted that the professionalism and football IQ of many players still surprised him. “A lot of these guys have been part of the program since they were kids, and you can immediately see it,” Krajewski explained. He was especially impressed by the organization’s youth development system. The quarterback has already attended youth and flag football practices and believes those programs are an important foundation for the future growth of football in Europe.
The first weeks inside the locker room have also left a strong impression on Krajewski. According to the quarterback, the players welcomed him immediately and made him feel part of the team from the beginning. At the same time, Krajewski is consciously trying to build trust inside the locker room himself. Spending time with teammates away from football is an important part of that process for him. “I want to show that I truly want to be here,” the Raiders Tirol quarterback explained.
A major factor in his transition has also been the work with Head Coach Shuan Fatah and Offensive Coordinator Maximilian Kössler. Krajewski especially praised the culture inside the organization. “Coach Shuan is not only an amazing coach, but also an amazing person,” Krajewski said. The quarterback was particularly impressed by the emphasis placed on character, teamwork, and mutual respect throughout the entire organization. According to him, that culture can be felt everywhere inside the building.
Despite the successful history of Raiders Tirol, Krajewski understands the expectations surrounding the franchise. Raiders Tirol have long been considered one of the most respected organizations in European football, but the team is still chasing another major international title. However, the quarterback says he does not feel pressure because of that. Instead, he focuses entirely on improving day by day. “From sunrise to sunset, I’m just trying to do the best job I can every single day,” Krajewski explained.
Looking at the new EFA season, the quarterback remains highly focused. Rankings and comparisons with other quarterbacks are not something he pays much attention to. “The only category I care about is the win category,” Krajewski said. Of course, he wants to prove that he belongs at this level, but ultimately winning games is all that matters to him. At the same time, he is excited about competing against the other quarterbacks in the league and about the future exposure European football could receive in the coming years.
The atmosphere in Innsbruck has already made a strong impression on the American quarterback. Krajewski repeatedly spoke about the support Raiders Tirol receive throughout the city. According to him, it is impossible to walk through Innsbruck without seeing people wearing Raiders Tirol gear. Because of that support, he feels a strong responsibility toward the fans. “I’m excited to win games for these fans and bring the city a championship,” Krajewski said.
This Sunday, Raiders Tirol officially begin the new EFA season with an away game against the Munich Ravens. For Steven Krajewski, it marks the official start of the next chapter in his career. With high expectations, strong infrastructure, and one of Europe’s most respected organizations behind him, the quarterback now wants to help bring Raiders Tirol back to the top.