Former Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Rocky Lombardi is set to continue his football career overseas by signing with the Dresden Monarchs of the German Football League (GFL) for the 2026 season. This move highlights the growing Cincinnati Bengals international expansion as the NFL and its players increasingly engage with European leagues. Lombardi’s goal will be to help the Monarchs capture their first championship after falling short in last season’s GFL-Bowl held in Dresden, Saxony’s capital.
The Monarchs, a leading team in the German league, reached the championship game last year but missed out on the title. Lombardi arrives determined to reverse that outcome.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to play for the Dresden Monarchs next season. The two championship appearances over the past two years show that outstanding work is being done there. I know the desire for a second title is huge, and that is exactly my goal. I want to give the fans at home in Dresden the championship,”
Lombardi said.
Background and Career Path of Rocky Lombardi
Before turning pro, Lombardi established himself during his college football career, playing for the Michigan State Spartans and later the Northern Illinois Huskies. He entered the NFL in 2024 as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Cincinnati Bengals on April 27. His time with the team was brief, as he was waived on August 23 after featuring in a preseason game against the Chicago Bears on August 17.
After his NFL stint, Lombardi continued pursuing professional football opportunities. He was drafted by the Michigan Panthers of the United Football League and, later, on January 30, 2026, joined the Negotiation List for the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League. Now, with the Dresden Monarchs, Lombardi aims to make a significant impact as the starting quarterback.
A Family Legacy and International Impact
Rocky Lombardi comes from a deep football lineage. He is the son of veteran coach and scout Tony Lombardi, who brings over three decades of football experience, and the grandson of Bob Lombardi, linking him to a rich football heritage. Though Rocky never appeared in a regular-season NFL game, his association with the Bengals and participation in preseason contests position him as a notable prospect.
His transition to the German Football League represents more than a personal career move; it embodies the increasing exchange between American football and its international growth. Players with NFL backgrounds like Lombardi bring attention and credibility to European leagues such as the GFL, supporting the broader Cincinnati Bengals international expansion and the NFL’s global ambitions.
European Leagues Gaining Momentum
The NFL’s international reach is expanding rapidly, with 2026 scheduled to feature a record nine games outside the United States, including host cities in London, Germany, Spain, and France. This surge in global activity is mirrored by the rise of strong regional leagues across Europe.
Former Bengals players already have a foothold in Europe, evidenced by wide receiver Reece Horn’s three seasons with the Vienna Vikings of Austria. The Dresden Monarchs’ acquisition of Lombardi adds to this trend as European leagues become attractive destinations for players seeking new challenges and continued professional growth.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Football Internationally
Rocky Lombardi’s move to Germany signals a new chapter for both his career and the sport’s international development. His presence is expected to bring experience and renewed excitement to the Dresden Monarchs as they aim for the GFL championship. The partnership between former NFL players and European football organizations could help elevate the quality and visibility of the sport overseas.
As the NFL continues to increase its global footprint, and as more American players join international clubs, the synergy between leagues will likely deepen. For football fans in Dresden and across Europe, Lombardi’s arrival represents the promise of a thrilling 2026 season and further integration of the Cincinnati Bengals international expansion strategy into a worldwide game.
