DC Defenders| News, Roster, Schedule, Scores & Coach

The DC Defenders are a professional American football team located in Washington, D.C. Established in 2020 as part of the revitalized XFL league, the team initially fell under the ownership of Alpha Entertainment, a company under the helm of Vince McMahon. Amid their debut season in 2020, the Defenders participated in five matches before the premature conclusion of the XFL season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the curtailed season, they displayed promising performances on the field.

Amid the XFL’s hiatus, the ownership of the Defenders transitioned to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, in collaboration with business partner Dany Garcia and RedBird Capital Partners. The 2023 season saw the return of the XFL, with the Defenders reemerging under new ownership. Guided by Head Coach Reggie Barlow, they exhibited a commendable performance in the 2023 season, culminating with a 9-1 record and a spot in the championship game.

In 2023, following a merger with the USFL, the XFL amalgamated to form the United Football League (UFL). The DC Defenders embarked on this new league, striving to perpetuate their achievements and solidify their position as a formidable contender within the UFL.

Who is the Sponsor of DC Defenders

The DC Defenders have some exciting sponsors backing their team:

Teremana Tequila: Crafted by none other than Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, this premium tequila adds a touch of star power to the Defenders’ lineup. With Johnson also being a part of the XFL ownership group, it’s a perfect fit for the league.

ZOA Energy Drink: Another brainchild of Dwayne Johnson, ZOA Energy Drink brings a powerful boost to both players and fans alike. With its refreshing taste and energizing ingredients, it’s a favorite among those who need to stay at the top of their game.

MightyMeals: Keeping the team fueled and ready for action, MightyMeals provides nutritious and delicious meals for the DC Defenders. With their support, players can focus on giving their all on the field without worrying about their next meal.

When was the team established?

The DC Defenders were established in 2020 as part of the revived XFL professional football league.

What are some key Milestones and Achievements in the DC Defenders’ History?

In 2020, the XFL’s promising season was abruptly halted after just five games due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fast forward to 2023, the Defenders, under new ownership, dominated with an impressive 9-1 record, clinching the North Division championship. Despite a tough loss in the XFL Championship game that same year, the team’s stellar performance highlighted their potential for greatness in the league. Now, as they venture into the UFL following the merger of the XFL and USFL, the team sets its sights on a new chapter of continued success.

Who are some notable Players and Coaches Associated with the DC Defenders?

Reggie Barlow assumed the role of head coach in 2023, guiding the Defenders to a remarkable season through his robust coaching methodology. Cardale Jones, as a quarterback in 2020, stood as the Defenders’ inaugural player draft pick, sparking enthusiasm among fans despite his restricted playing opportunities in the abbreviated season.

How has the DC Defenders impacted the local community and fanbase?

Specific details regarding the community impact initiatives of the DC Defenders have not been extensively documented yet. Nevertheless, the team’s achievements on the field hold the potential to motivate local youth and spark enthusiasm for the sport. Engaging with supporters through activities such as meet-and-greets, autograph sessions, and community gatherings can nurture a sense of connection and local pride. As the DC Defenders progress, their influence on the community is anticipated to expand, potentially resulting in increased community engagement endeavors and a more robust fan base.

Coaching Staff DC Defenders

Position	Name
Head Coach	Reggie Barlow
General Manager	Von Hutchins
Defensive Backs	Vernon Dean
Offensive Coordinator	Fred Kaiss
Wide Receivers	Sean Anderson
Offensive Line	Russ Ehrenfeld
Linebackers	Deion Harris
Quarterbacks	Shannon Harris
Defensive Line	Jeremy Watkins
Defensive Coordinator	Gregg Williams

Who is the Current head Coach of the DC Defenders?

While details regarding the upcoming UFL season, including coaching staff, may not have been officially released, given the impressive performance of the DC Defenders in 2023 under his guidance, it is probable that Reggie Barlow will continue as the head coach for the team. However, an official confirmation closer to the season commencement may be necessary.

Reggie Barlow Coaching Background and Achievements:

Reggie Barlow brings a wealth of coaching experience and a track record of success to his role as the head coach of the DC Defenders:

1. College Coaching Experience: Prior to his tenure with the DC Defenders, Barlow served as the head coach for various universities, including Virginia State and Alabama State. During his time in college football, he demonstrated his ability to develop players and lead teams to success.
2. Proven Leadership: Barlow’s coaching career is marked by his strong leadership skills and his capacity to motivate players to perform at their best. His tenure at the collegiate level showcased his ability to navigate the challenges of coaching and to achieve results.

Reggie Barlow Coaching Philosophy or Style:

Reggie Barlow, as the head coach of the DC Defenders, brings a distinct coaching philosophy to the team:

1. Strong Work Ethic: Barlow emphasizes the importance of dedication and hard work from his players. He instills a culture of commitment and perseverance, believing that consistent effort leads to success on and off the field.
2. Teamwork and Discipline: Central to Barlow’s coaching style is the promotion of teamwork and discipline. He emphasizes the significance of players working together cohesively and adhering to structured systems to achieve their collective goals.
3. Balanced Approach: Recognizing the importance of both offensive and defensive capabilities, Barlow strives for a balanced approach to the game. He ensures that his team is well-rounded, with equal focus on both offensive and defensive strategies to maximize performance.
4. Player Development: Barlow is committed to the development and growth of his players. He provides guidance and support to help players reach their full potential, both as athletes and individuals.

Roster of Arlington Renegades

• No. This stands for “Number” and typically represents the player’s jersey number.
• Pos: This stands for “Position” and indicates the player’s role on the team, such as quarterback, wide receiver, linebacker, etc.
• Ht: This stands for “Height” and denotes the player’s vertical measurement in feet and inches.
• Wt: This stands for “Weight” and indicates the player’s mass in pounds.

Position:

Cornerback (CB), Quarterback (QB), Wide Receiver (WR), Outside Linebacker (OLB), Running Back (RB), Tight End (TE), Defensive Lineman (DL), Defensive Back (DB), Offensive Tackle (OT), Offensive Guard (OG), Punter (P), Center (C), Defensive Tackle (DT), Linebacker (LB), Long Snapper (LS), Guard (G), Kicker (K), Defensive End (DE)

NAME	No.	Pos	Ht	Wt	College	Hometown	Age
DEONTAY ANDERSON	9	SAF	6’1″	218	Houston	Houston, TX	26
DEANDRE BAKER	25	CB	5’11”	190	Georgia	Miami, FL	26
T.J. BARNES	72	DT	6’7″	345	Georgia Tech	Enterprise, AL	33
TRAE BARRY	80	TE	6’6″	250	Boston College	Summerdale, AL	25
DAVIN BELLAMY	7	DE	6’3″	259	Georgia	Chamblee, GA	29
FRANCIS BERNARD	43	LB	6’1″	230	Utah	Herriman, UT	28
SHAUN BEYER	82	TE	6’5″	210	Iowa	Shellsburg, IA	27
PAXTON BROOKS	47	P	6’6″	199	Tennessee	Lexington, SC	24
TOMMY CHAMPION	73	T	6’5″	320	Mississippi State	Jackson, MS	27
GAREON CONLEY	20	CB	6’0″	190	Ohio State	Massillon, OH, USA	28
KEKE COUTEE	81	WR	5’10”	179	Texas Tech	Lufkin, TX	27
JEAN DELANCE	59	T	6’4″	303	Florida	Mesquite, TX	26
YASIR DURANT	70	T	6’7″	330	Missouri	Philadelphia, PA	25
ALEX ELLIS	18	TE	6’4″	240	Tennessee	Delmar, DE	31
MALIK FISHER	92	DE	6’3″	262	Villanova	New York, NY	25
LIAM FORNADEL	77	T	6’4″	312	James Madison	Wyckoff, NJ	24
DEONDRE FRANCOIS	8	QB	6’1″	215	Hampton	Orlando, FL	27
LAMONT GAILLARD	53	C	6’2″	304	Georgia	Fayetteville, NC	28
FERROD GARDNER	6	LB	6’1″	220	Louisiana	Dayton, OH	27
DARIUS HAGANS	28	RB	6’0″	207	Virginia State	Chesapeake, VA	24
KELVIN HARMON	13	WR	6’2″	215	North Carolina St.	Palmyra, NJ	26
CAM’RON HARRIS	3	RB	5’9″	214	Miami (FL)	Opa-Locka, FL	25
TRENT HARRIS	33	DE	6’4″	246	Miami (FL)	Winter Park, FL	28
D’MARCUS HAYES	78	OG	6’5″	315	Georgia	Madison, MS	27
ANTHONY HINES III	57	LB	6’3″	226	Texas A&M	Plano, TX	25
DENNIS JOHNSON	91	NT	6’2″	292	Grand Valley State	Columbus, OH	25
ISAIAH JOHNSON	32	CB	6’2″	208	Houston	Bryan, TX	28
MICHAEL JOSEPH	15	CB	6’1″	187	Dubuque	Oswego, IL	29
ANTHOULA KELLY	24	CB	5’9″	182	Fresno State	Galena Park, TX	28
SAM KIDD	37	DB	6’1″	206	James Madison	Reston, VA	25
MICHAEL MAIETTI	51	C	6’1″	290	Missouri	West Orange, NJ	26
JALAN MCCLENDON	17	QB	6’4″	222	Baylor	Charlotte, NC	28
MATTHEW MCCRANE	16	K	5’10”	167	Kansas State	Brownwood, TX	29
ANDRE MINTZE	48	DE	6’3″	253	Vanderbilt	Philadelphia, PA	25
BRILEY MOORE-MCKINNEY	88	TE	6’4″	250	Kansas State	Blue Springs, MO	26
KYLE MURPHY	53	T	6’6″	305	Stanford	Mission Viejo, CA	30
MONTAE NICHOLSON	21	SAF	6’2″	212	Michigan State	Monroeville, PA	28
REGGIE NORTHRUP II	5	LB	6’1″	220	Florida State	Jacksonville, FL	30
SANTOS RAMIREZ	39	SAF	6’1″	202	Arkansas	Shreveport, LA	27
DERICK ROBERSON	50	DE	6’3″	247	Sam Houston State	San Antonio, TX	28
JAHMIR ROSS-JOHNSON	58	T	6’5″	300	Texas A&M	Philadelphia, PA	26
NYDAIR ROUSE	38	CB	5’11”	185	West Chester	Philadelphia, PA	28
CHRIS ROWLAND	12	WR	5’8″	179	Tennessee State	Nolensville, TN	26
MOMO SANOGO	55	LB	6’1″	231	Louisville	Plano, TX	25
TY SCOTT	19	WR	6’1″	199	Missouri State	Estill, SC	25
NILES SCOTT	90	DT	6’1″	326	Frostburg State	Elkton, MD	28
ABRAM SMITH	4	RB	5’11”	221	Baylor	Abilene, TX	25
BRANDON SMITH	2	WR	6’2″	215	Iowa	Lake Cormorant, MS	25
VYNCINT SMITH	86	WR	6’3″	197	Limestone	Columbia, SC	27
KADEN SMITH	89	TE	6’5″	248	Stanford	Flower Mound, TX	26
D.J. SWEARINGER	36	SAF	5’10”	205	South Carolina	Greenwood, SC	32
JORDAN TA’AMU	10	QB	6’3″	221	Ole Miss	Pearl City, HI	26
JOE WALLACE	99	DT	5’11”	290	Sam Houston State	Dallas, TX	25
POOKA WILLIAMS JR.	1	RB	5’10”	170	Kansas	New Orleans, LA	24
ENRIQUE YENNY ROMERO		K	6’2″	220		Aguascalientes City, MEX	29

Venue of DC Defenders

The venue of the DC Defenders is Audi Field. This soccer-specific stadium is located in Buzzard Point, Washington D.C., offering a dynamic and immersive experience for fans. Audi Field is renowned for its intimate atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities, making it an ideal home for the DC Defenders. Its location not only brings the team closer to their supporters but also contributes to the vibrant sports culture in the capital city.

Address	100 Potomac Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States
Capacity	20,000
Teams	D.C. United, Washington Spirit
Opened	July 9, 2018
Owner	District of Columbia
Architecture firm	Populous
Field size	115 yd × 75 yd (105 m × 69 m)
Surface	Bermuda grass
Architect	Populous; Marshall Moya Design
Construction cost	$400 million – $500 million
Operator	D.C. United
Coordinates	38°52′06″N 77°00′46″W / 38.868411°N 77.012869°W

Where does the DC Defenders play their home games?

The DC Defenders play their home games at Audi Field, a soccer-specific stadium located in Buzzard Point, Washington D.C.  This state-of-the-art venue provides an intimate and immersive experience for fans and is an ideal home for the team.

Description of the Arena/Stadium Facilities:

Opened in 2018, Audi Field features a contemporary design tailored for an exceptional soccer experience. Although adaptations may occur for football, the fundamental aspects are expected to prioritize the creation of an engaging atmosphere for fans and players.

Capacity and Notable Features of the Venue:

Capacity: Audi Field has a seating capacity of around 20,000 spectators, offering a close-knit environment that allows fans to immerse themselves in the game’s energy.

Notable Features:

• Steep Inclination: The stadium features a steeper incline in comparison to traditional multi-purpose stadiums, enhancing the proximity of fans to the on-field action for an elevated viewing experience.
• Supporters Section: A designated zone for passionate fans to cultivate a vibrant atmosphere through drumming, chanting, and colorful tifo displays (elaborate choreographed exhibitions with flags and banners).
• High-Definition Scoreboard: An expansive, high-definition scoreboard keeps spectators updated on the game’s progress, showcases replays, and offers other pertinent updates.
• Concession Stands: A variety of concession stands offer food and beverage options tailored to diverse fan preferences.
• Restrooms and Concourse Areas: Strategically located restrooms and well-maintained concourse areas ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for attendees throughout the event.
• Luxury Suites (potential): A limited number of exclusive suites with premium amenities like catering and in-suite entertainment may be accessible for a more luxurious game-day experience.
• Technology Integration (potential): Contemporary stadiums frequently incorporate conveniences such as complimentary Wi-Fi, cashless transactions, and interactive mobile applications to enhance the fan experience. While specifics are pending confirmation, Audi Field may have integrated some of these technological advancements.

Audi Field provides an intimate and electric atmosphere for DC Defenders’ home games. Its design prioritizes fan engagement and creates a true home field advantage for the team.

DC Defenders Schedule of USL 2024

The DC Defenders are one of the newest teams in the United Soccer League (USL), set to make their debut in the 2024 season. The full schedule for the team has not been released yet, but here are some key dates and match-ups that fans can look forward to:

Week 1:

DC Defenders vs San Antonio Brahmas

Date: Sunday, March 31

Time: 12:00 PM (ET)

Venue: Audi Field

TV Channel: ESPN

Week 2:

DC Defenders vs Houston Roughnecks

Date: Sunday, April 7

Time: 4:00 PM (ET)

Venue: Audi Field

TV Channel: FOX

Week 3:

DC Defenders vs Arlington Renegades

Date: Saturday, April 13

Time: 1:00 PM (ET)

Venue: Audi Field

TV Channel: ESPN

Week 4:

DC Defenders vs Birmingham Stallions

Date: Saturday, April 20

Time: 7:00 PM (ET)

Venue: Audi Field

TV Channel: FOX

Week 5:

DC Defenders vs St. Louis Battlehawks

Date: Sunday, April 28

Time: 12:00 PM (ET)

Venue: Audi Field

TV Channel: ESPN

Week 6:

DC Defenders vs San Antonio Brahmas

Date: Sunday, May 5

Time: 4:00 PM (ET)

Venue: TBD

TV Channel: FOX

Week 7:

DC Defenders vs Michigan Panthers

Date: Sunday, May 12

Time: 12:00 PM (ET)

Venue: Audi Field

TV Channel: ESPN

Week 8:

DC Defenders vs St. Louis Battlehawks

Date: Sunday, May 19

Time: 12:00 PM (ET)

Venue: Audi Field

TV Channel: ABC

Week 9:

DC Defenders vs Memphis Showboats

Date: Sunday, May 26

Time: 2:30 PM (ET)

Venue: Audi Field

TV Channel: FOX

Week 10:

DC Defenders vs Arlington Renegades

Date: Sunday, June 2

Time: 12:00 PM (ET)

Venue: Audi Field

TV Channel: ABC

History DC Defenders

The DC Defenders are a relatively young team, having only competed in two seasons so far. Here’s a recap of their journey:

League and Formation (2020): 

The DC Defenders were founded in 2020 as part of the rebooted XFL professional football league. They joined alongside other teams like the Arlington Renegades (then Dallas Renegades). Initial ownership belonged to Alpha Entertainment, a company founded by wrestling magnate Vince McMahon.

Short-Lived Season (2020): 

Unfortunately, the XFL’s 2020 season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Defenders only managed to play five games before operations were suspended.

League Hiatus and Ownership Change (2020-2022): 

With the XFL on hold, the Defenders awaited their next opportunity. During this period, the ownership group changed hands. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, his business partner Dany Garcia, and RedBird Capital Partners acquired the Defenders along with other XFL teams.

XFL Relaunch and Strong Showing (2023): 

The XFL resumed play in 2023, and the DC Defenders returned under their new ownership. Led by Head Coach Reggie Barlow, they had a successful season:

• Regular Season: Achieved an impressive 9-1 record, clinching first place in the North Division.
• Playoffs: The Defenders’ momentum continued. They defeated the Seattle Sea Dragons in the divisional round but fell short in the XFL Championship game against the Arlington Renegades.

League Merger and New Chapter (2023): 

With the XFL and USFL merging to form the United Football League (UFL) at the end of 2023, the DC Defenders enter a new era. They look to build on their past success and establish themselves as a contender in the UFL.

Key Takeaways: 

The DC Defenders are a young team with a promising future. Their strong performance in the 2023 XFL season demonstrates their potential. The team enters the newly formed UFL with a new ownership group and a chance to solidify their position in the league.