The DC Defenders wrapped up a successful 2026 UFL Draft, held over two days at the league headquarters in Arlington, Texas. The team made significant strides in bolstering its roster, selecting 41 players over both days.
Day One: Building the Core
On the first day, the Defenders focused on key positional groups, drafting 17 players. The selections included standout talents like Adrian Ealy (T, Oklahoma), Seth Williams (WR, Auburn), and Abram Smith (RB, Baylor). The team also strengthened its defensive lineup with picks such as Durrell Johnson (ED, Liberty) and Leon O’Neal Jr. (S, Texas A&M). This strategic approach ensured a balanced mix of offensive and defensive players to solidify the team’s foundation.
Below is a list of Day One selections by the DC Defenders:
| Name | Position | School |
| Adrian Ealy | T | Oklahoma |
| Durrell Johnson | ED | Liberty |
| Devonnsha Maxwell | SI | Tennessee-Chattanooga |
| Dennis Johnson | DI | Grand Valley State |
| Brian Abraham | ED | Albany |
| Ferrod Gardner | LB | Louisiana Lafayette |
| Phil Hoskins | DI | Kentucky |
| Seth Williams | WR | Auburn |
| Ben Bresnahan | TE | Vanderbilt |
| Abram Smith | RB | Baylor |
| Javon Antonio | WR | Colorado |
| Trae Barry | TE | Boston College |
| Deontay Anderson | S | Houston |
| Leon O’Neal Jr. | S | Texas A&M |
| Kiondre Thomas | CB | Kansas State |
| Sam Kidd | S | James Madison |
| Kai Nacua | S | BYU |
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Day Two: Adding Depth and Experience
Day Two centered on free agent signings, with the Defenders adding 24 players to their roster. Notable acquisitions included Jaelyn Duncan (T, Maryland), Curtis Jacobs (LB, Penn State), and Lewis Cine (S, Georgia). The team also brought in promising offensive talents like Zack Kuntz (TE, Old Dominion) and Xazavian Valladay (RB, Arizona State). These additions aim to provide depth and versatility, ensuring the Defenders are well-prepared for the upcoming season.
Below is a complete list of Day Two free agent signings by the DC Defenders:
| Name | Position | School |
| Jaelyn Duncan | T | Maryland |
| Parker Clements | T | Virginia Tech |
| Michael Tarquin | T | Oklahoma |
| Silas Dzansi | T | Virginia Tech |
| Elijah Ellis | T | Marshall |
| Curtis Jacobs | LB | Penn State |
| Kyron Johnson | LB | Kansas |
| Patrick Jenkins | DT | Tulane |
| Desmond Watson | DT | Florida |
| Zack Kuntz | TE | Old Dominion |
| Xazavian Valladay | RB | Arizona State |
| Montrell Washington | WR | Samford |
| Jalen Virgil | WR | Appalachian State |
| Ekow Boye-Doe | CB | Kansas State |
| Lewis Cine | S | Georgia |
| Azizi Hearn | CB | UCLA |
| Gabe Taylor | CB | Rice |
| Maliq Carr | TE | Houston |
| Maceo Beard | S | International |
| Niles Scott | DI | Frostburg State |
| Kyle Phillips | ED | Tennessee |
| Davin Bellamy | ED | Georgia |
| Josh Ball | T | Marshall |
| Nicholas Petit-Frere | T | Ohio State |
| Grant Dubose | WR | Charlotte |
A Promising Future
With a mix of young prospects and experienced free agents, the DC Defenders have positioned themselves as strong contenders for the 2026 UFL season. Fans can look forward to seeing these new additions in action as the team aims to build on its legacy and compete for championship glory.
