Werner feeds fans NFL with German flavor

Bjorn Werner signed everything thrust in front ofhim by NFL fans who packed a Berlin plaza Saturday.

- By KEN MacuirE AND CIARAN FAHEY

EBRAHIM NOROOZI Associated Press EX-COLTS star and podcaster Björn Werner says, "I'm just thankful to be here."

His old Indianapolis Colts jersey — it’s a bestseller in Germany — footballs, scarves, miniature helmets. Even a cleat.

Werner’s NFL career ended after three seasons because of injuries, but he’s become a star in his home country as a TV commentator and media personality. He co-hosts a popular podcast, has a big social media presence and is credited with helping popularize the sport in Germany.

As the former first-round draft pick waded through throngs of fans, he looked around and took stock of the NFL's growth in Germany.

“We're in the biggest city in Germany, and we're surrounded by football fans,” he told the Associated Press as he continued to sign items and pose for selfies. “I’m just thankful to be here.”

Saturday’s event was a Colts rally in Potsdamer Platz a day before Indianapolis faces the Atlanta Falcons at the Olympiastadion for the NFL's first regular-season game in the German capital.

Colts great and Hall of Fame running back Edgerin James was also featured and drew a long line for autographs, but nothing like the Werner frenzy — with security guards creating space for the former Florida State star to shuffle along.