Former 49ers coach Jim Tomsula trying to boost American football in Europe

Jim Tomsula, a former head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, is now attempting to expand American football's presence in Europe. Tomsula, who led the 49ers to a 5-11 record in the 2015 season, has taken on the role of CEO for the American Football League Europe (AFLE), which recently concluded its inaugural season. Tomsula, a native of Pennsylvania, began his coaching career in Europe in the late 1990s and has extensive experience with various European teams.

Currently, Tomsula is navigating the challenges of starting a new league, dealing with financial difficulties and uncertainty. Despite these obstacles, Tomsula remains optimistic and excited about the future of American football in Europe. He emphasizes that his approach is to adapt the American game to European cultures, rather than imposing American culture onto the sport.

The NFL is playing a record nine international games this season, with six matches in Europe. On Sunday, the Cincinnati Bengals will play against the Atlanta Falcons at Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Tomsula was approached by the AFLE to take on this role previously, but ultimately accepted after his wife encouraged him to "go all in."

Tomsula's deep understanding of American football in Europe, honed through his coaching experiences with teams such as the England Monarchs, Scottish Claymores, and Berlin Thunder, makes him a strong candidate for the position.