Player Spotlight: How Raffaele Morelli Became One of FPF’s Best

In the world of FPF, few names command the respect as a rusher that Raffaele Morelli has earned over the past 7 years. Currently the captain of CTE in the 5v5 Intermediate Division, Morelli has carved out a legacy that places him among the league’s all-time greats — a six-time All-Star, three-time Defensive Player of the Year, three-time champion, and , sixth all-time in career sacks with 258.

But his journey to dominance wasn’t scripted — it was built on adaptability, and a passion that has fueled his rise from defensive back to one of the most dominant rushers in FlagPlus Football.

From Cougars to Champion

Morelli’s football story began in 2010 with the St. Leonard Cougars, where he started playing tackle football. But it was thanks to his high school coach, Erminio Iadeluca, that he was introduced to flag football in 2014 — a season that ended with his first flag championship alongside his best friend and current quarterback, Alessandro Barazzoni.

An Accidental Rusher

Interestingly, Morelli never set out to be a rusher. His early years were spent as a DB, but in the fall of 2018, as captain of Unknown Talent, necessity rewrote his story.

“With only five players left after injuries, I volunteered to rush in our finals,” Morelli says. “We won that game, and ever since then, I’ve been a rusher.”

That moment ignited a remarkable shift, and Morelli has never looked back. With explosive speed off the line, sharp hands for de-flagging, relentless effort, and unmatched discipline, he transformed into one of the most disruptive defensive forces in the league.

The Numbers Tell the Story

Across 230 career games, Morelli has amassed:

211 tackles
16 interceptions
258 sacks
51 pass deflections
2 defensive touchdowns

Those numbers not only place him sixth all-time in career sacks but make him a consistent nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Yet, it’s not just about the stats — it’s about his presence. Morelli sets the tone early, leads vocally, and anchors a defense that thrives on intensity.

A Captain’s Impact

As the captain of CTE, Morelli’s leadership is woven into every snap. Teammates look to him for energy, opponents have to game-plan around him, and he sets the standard.

“He’s the kind of guy that gets everyone dialed in,” one teammate says. “When Raff’s fired up, the whole team plays with an edge.”

Favorite Moments and Memorable Games

Morelli’s career has no shortage of highlights, but two games stand out.

“The 5v6 Bowl win is one of my favorite team memories,” he says. “It was the first season playing with my friends, and we won the finals in a crazy game.”

But his personal favorite? That’s easy.

“My first pick-six as a rusher in the spring of 2021,” Morelli said. “It was the same season I won my second Defensive Player of the Year award. I’ll never forget that moment.”

Setbacks and Resilience

While Morelli has avoided major injuries, Morelli relocated to Ottawa for school, missing multiple FPF seasons. Yet, when he returned, he came back stronger, and hungrier.

Growth and Evolution

Morelli’s evolution extends beyond defense.

“I’ll admit — I’m still not the greatest receiver”. “But compared to eight years ago, I’m a lot more comfortable running routes and finding space. And over time, your football IQ grows. I’ve learned that you don’t need to be the fastest or tallest rusher to have an impact — you need to be smart.”

A Legacy in Motion

As for the future, Morelli’s goals are crystal clear.

“I want to keep winning championships and be remembered as one of the best players in league history,” he says. “And personally, I’m chasing Ryan Aridi’s career sack record. Without it, I won’t be satisfied.”

In a league filled with talent, Raffaele Morelli has set himself apart. Not just as a rusher, not just as a leader, but as a relentless competitor whose impact will echo in FPF history for years to come.