With the NWSL quarterfinals complete and the semifinalists identified, the players whose seasons ended this weekend will be walking home with some extra cash for making the playoffs. Seattle, Louisville, and San Diego will all be earning the $1,250 each player, while Kansas City players will receive $6,250 due to the extra $5,000 bonus for winning the NWSL Shield. 

The semifinalists will take home $2,500 each, while the Championship runner ups will get $3,750 and the Championship winners will receive $5,000. 

In the 2027 season, there will be a bump up for playoff bonuses for players who make it to the NWSL Championship game or win the NWSL Shield.

After a successful 2024 season that saw Real Salt Lake finish 3rd place in the MLS Western Conference, many would agree that their 9th place “play-in” game finish in 2025 that saw them eliminated in the Wild Card game would categorize this season as a disappointment.

Real Salt Lake were all over the place this season. The team went winless in MLS play in August & finished the season with 12 wins (7th most wins in Western Conference) & 17 losses (4th most losses in Western Conference).

The biggest question for Real Salt Lake entering 2026 is: What will they look like? How will the club look to continue to build on the roster after their extremely busy summer transfer window with very little room to make changes?

In the offseason guide:

The Positives

Diego Luna is Diego Luna. The 22-year-old USMNT midfielder had 9 goals & 7 assists (16 goal contributions) this season for Real Salt Lake. The past 12 months for Luna have been astonishing to watch and see him grow into one of the most entertaining “prospects” within the league. It will be imperative for RSL to surround Luna with exciting pieces so that this franchise can grow for the future.

This club had FIFTEEN different goal scorers, with SEVEN scoring more than one goal. If this group can add the consistency factor & can bag more goals, then this team will be smooth sailing into this offseason.

Defensively, the team allowed 1 goal more than last season. That’s pretty good, considering they finished 6 places lower than in 2024.

If this group can keep their core & build upon the consistency, they’ll be fine.

In terms of the front office side, in October, the club announced that they had hired Jason Kreis as the club’s first ever President of soccer operations & announced that they have given contract extensions to Head Coach Pablo Mastroeni, Sporting Director Kurt Schmid and Assistant Sporting Director Tony Beltran. These are all tremendous decisions.

Kreis returned to Utah in December 2023, as the Club’s Director of Club Operations & Special Projects. In that role, Kreis integrated and streamlined numerous business and community initiatives, while utilizing his nearly 30 years of expertise as a Major League Soccer player and coach.

In the five seasons played under Sporting Director Kurt Schmid & Head Coach Pablo Mastroeni’s guidance (2021-present), RSL has advanced to both the 2021 Western Conference Final at Portland and the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Semifinal at Houston. Mastroeni is the sixth-ever MLS head coach (out of 205) to advance his Club to the postseason in each of the first five seasons.

Additionally, Tony Beltran (who has been in RSL’s front office since 2019) has been promoted to assistant sporting director. He'll continue to report to Schmid and has additional first-team duties.

The Negatives

What initially looked like a positive signing in August of 2025, Designated Player Rwan Cruz struggled. The DP forward was signed on loan from Botafogo through June 2026 with a purchase option for $5,000,000. He was poised to make an instant impact, however, in his 11 games this season, Cruz had 642 minutes played with ZERO goals & 1 assist.

It is imperative that this team finds a way to get attacking players to fit around Diego Luna & unlock more goals to improve upon their season. 

The squad scored 27 less goals in comparison to 2024. That’s not good. This club has struggled to find their Cristian “Chico” Arango / Andrés Gómez replacement from 2024, however, the hope is that Rwan Cruz can be that player for this club.

Roster Flexibility

Real Salt Lake has barely any roster flexibility. At the moment, the club has two designated players (Rwan Cruz & Diogo Gonçalves) and four U-22 initiative signings (Diego Luna, Dominik Marczuk, Nelson Palacio, & Ariath Piol). 

This club is currently in the 2DP and 4 U-22s model, which includes up to $2 million in GAM.

The club announced their end-of-season roster update, where they announced most contract option decisions. The club is entering the 2026 season with 28 players rostered. 

Offseason Priorities

Attempt to sign a free agent forward that can provide depth to compliment Diego Luna, Dominik Marczuk, Diogo Gonçalves & Ariath Piol.

The club is in talks with defenders Javain Brown, Koby Henry, & Sam Junqua over returns to the club. It’ll be important for Real Salt Lake to retain as much as their defense as they can, as they did allow just 1 goal more than last season. Defensively, the group was sound & it’d be important to keep your core together.

This is a playoff team. The hope is that your two DP forwards & U22 players gain some comfortability in the league, & hope that the group can remain healthy & get RSL back to the MLS Cup Playoffs.

Again, this should be a playoff team.

The New England Revolution have appointed Marko Mitrović as the club’s 10th head coach. Mitrović brings 15+ years of coaching experience on the international, professional, & youth levels.

“We’re really excited to welcome Marko Mitrović as head coach of the New England Revolution,” Sporting Director Curt Onalfo said. “During the interview process, Marko’s tactical acumen and modern coaching philosophies set him apart. It’s crystal clear that he shares our ambitions to compete for trophies in 2026 and beyond. His extensive coaching experience at both the club and international levels, including on some of the world’s biggest stages, have prepared him well for this pivotal role.”

Mitrović, 47, arrives at New England fresh off a run at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile where he led the US U20 Men’s National Team to the Quarterfinals. He aided the team winning Group E, where the team went 2W-0D-1L. The U20s won 9-1 versus New Caledonia, 3-0 versus France & fell 2-1 versus South Africa. In the Round of 16, USA defeated Italy 3-0. The team unfortunately were defeated in the Quarterfinals versus the eventual champions, Morocco, 3-1. 

The young coach is fluent in four languages: English, Serbian, Russian, Croatian & has proficiency in Spanish.

“It’s an honor to join the Revolution and become the new head coach of this storied club,” Mitrović said. “I’m grateful to the Kraft family, Brian Bilello and Curt Onalfo for trusting me to lead the team, a responsibility I take very seriously. I will work relentlessly to deliver a team the fans will be proud to support. I’m excited to get started.”

In terms of previous experience, Mitrović has over 16 seasons of professional playing experience across Serbia, Hungary, Azerbaijan & Kazakhstan. Mitrović began his career with Red Star Belgrade (1995-99), where he was sent on loan three times to FK Voždovac (1995-96), Budućnost Valijevo (1996-97) & FK Milicionar (1997-98). While with FK Milicionar, he assisted in the team’s promotion to the Super League. In the summer of 1999, he joined FK Zemun for 6 months. He then joined FK Radnički 1923 (2000-01). He later joined FK Budućnost Banatski Dvor (2002-05) where he won the league in his second season. In Summer of 2005, he joined Olimpik Baku (2005-06). He later joined Banat Zrenjanin (2006-07). In 2008, he signed for FC Atyrau (2008), was transferred to FC Megasport (2008) which later merged with Lokomotiv Astana (2009). He ended his career with Smederevo (2010).

After retirement, Mitrović entered the coaching realm and began coaching with Serbian side Banat Zrenjanin as an Assistant Coach (2011-12). He then left to join Serbian side Napredak Krusevac as an Assistant Coach (2012-13). Following the 2013 season, he left Krusevac and returned to his boyhood academy club, Red Star Belgrade. He began with the U-15s, a role which he held for two seasons (from 2013-15). During his time with Krusevac & Red Star, he held a position with the Serbian Youth National Team (2012-16) & worked as the Head Coach of the U15s & U20s. He won the 2015 U20 World Cup & 3rd place in the 2014 UEFA U19 Championship.

In 2016, Mitrović endured his first stint in MLS as he joined Chicago Fire FC(2016-19) as an Assistant Coach. While with Chicago, Mitrović helped lead the Fire back to the MLS Cup Playoffs in 2017 following a third-place finish in the Eastern Conference.

Following his tenure in Chicago, Mitrović joined Reading FC as an Assistant Coach (2020-22).

At the conclusion of his tenure in England, Mitrović first joined U.S. Soccer as head coach of the Under-19 national team from 2022-23. Prior to taking over the helm of the United States Under-20 side, Mitrović became head coach of the Under-23s in 2023 and led the program to the quarterfinals of the 2024 Olympic Games in France.

In his farewell address to the USYNT, Mitrović said, “After almost four years, it’s time to say goodbye. I’ve had a wonderful experience with the U.S. Soccer Federation, one where I was given the opportunity to work with exceptional people and great professionals that helped me grow as a person and a coach. I was privileged to coach some of the best talents that we have in our soccer landscape and to learn from them. I hold a tremendous sense of pride in the fact that I represented the USA at the Olympic Games, U-20 World Cup, Gold Cup & Nations League. I can only say a big thank you to all that have been part of my time at U.S. Soccer the past several years. This has been an incredibly special time in my life. Thank you for everything. Let’s Go USA!”

Mitrović’s introductory press conference will be held Wednesday, November 12th at 1:30pm EST along with New England Revolution Sporting Director Curt Onalfo.

Real Salt Lake announced its year-end roster decisions which include options exercised, options declined, extensions and contract terminations.

Contract Options Exercised

Jesus Barea (F)
Noel Caliskan (M)
Alex Katranis (D)
Braian Ojeda (M)
Phillip Quinton (D)
Mason Stajduhar (GK)
Brayan Vera (D)
Marcos Zambrano (F)

Contract Optioned Declined

Forster Ajago (F)
Matthew Bell (M)
Kevon Lambert (D)
Johnny Russell (F)
Tommy Silva (D)
Jude Wellings (M)

Players in negotiations over return

Javain Brown (D)
Koby Henry (D)
Sam Junqua (D)

Players Out of Contract

William Agada (F)
Zack Farnsworth (GK)
Zac MacMath (GK)

Players Under Contract

Goalkeepers: Rafael Cabral, Max Kerkvliet, Mason Stajduhar

Defenders: Justen Glad, Alex Katranis, Phillip Quinton, Luis Rivera, Brayan Vera

Midfielders: Owen Anderson, Noel Caliskan, Emeka Enali, Diogo Gonçalves, Diego Luna, Omar Marquez, Luca Moisa, Braian Ojeda, Nelson Palacio, Pablo Ruiz, Juan Gio Villa

Forwards: Jesus Barea, Rwan Cruz, Zavier Gozo, Aiden Hezarkhani, Dominik Marczuk, Victor Olatunji, Ari Piol, Tyler Wolff, Marcos Zambrano

Related: 

Real Salt Lake Multi-Year Outlook

Real Salt Lake Transactions

13 MLB players were officially tendered a $22.025M qualifying offer by their respective team this week, acting as a placeholder for the upcoming free agent season. Most (if not all) are expected to decline the salary to hit the open market, and Spotrac looks at what their future compensation might look like.

RELATED
Understanding the MLB Qualifying Offer

Kyle Tucker (29, RF, Cubs)

10 years, $400M

Tucker’s shine wore off a bit as he pushed through a fractured hand, but he remains the top all-around pending free agent this winter. The numbers likely won’t reach Soto or even Judge thresholds, but this should be another eye-popping free agent contract nevertheless.

Dylan Cease (30, SP, Padres)

7 years, $210M

Cease doesn’t have the statistical resume or consistency as many of the top-paid pitchers possess, but he’s got age and durability on his side this winter. Since making his debut in 2019, Cease has never missed a start. That might be worth an extra year on the contract when it’s all said and done.

Framber Valdez (31, SP, Astros)

6 years, $200M

Valdez hits the market with a bit of a weird vibe, as questions surrounding his health, conditioning, and locker room presence all surfaced in 2025. The production on the mound hasn’t wavered a bit however, and there’s a world where contending teams overpay on the annual to maximize a shorter term deal here.

Bo Bichette (28, SS, Blue Jays)

7 years, $175M

Bichette is a hit machine, and has shown a good deal of power in his first 6+ seasons as well. This recent knee injury could be a nail in the coffin for his days as a shortstop, but a willingness to slide over to 2nd or 3rd in a more primary manner could help bolster his market this winter. A mini bidding war should get his bottom line north of $200M.

Ranger Suarez (30, SP, Phillies)

6 years, $160M

The best case to be made for Suarez is that he’s found a way to be successful in a variety of ways, despite a dip in velocity the past few seasons. Every team in the league wants a LHP who can give them 150 IP without blinking, but longevity will be a red flag per these negotiations.

Kyle Schwarber (33, DH, Phillies)

4 years, $120M

Mathematically, Schwarber in a full-time DH role carries a value at around $25M per year, but his pedigree, experience, and history of clutch production should be considered nearly invaluable to contenders this winter. Will the Phillies push more into the tax in order to retain his services?

Michael King (30, SP, Padres)

4 years, $85M

A knee injury derailed the back end of King’s 2025 campaign, but he’s just 1 season removed from an outstanding 2024 season, his first as a full-time starter. Is this the prince turning back into a pumpkin, or will a team or two put enough faith in his somewhat inconsistent production to guarantee him Tier 3 starting pitcher pay this offseason?

Shota Imanaga (32, SP, Cubs)

4 years, $75M

The Cubs somewhat surprisingly punted on a 3 year, $57M for Imanaga, who maintained decent numbers in his second season despite struggling to keep the ball in the ballpark at times. Mathematically speaking, he’s an $18M-$19M per year player in our system (almost identical to what Chicago just declined). It doesn’t seem inconceivable that a team or two are willing to take a flier at that price point.

Edwin Diaz (31, RP, Mets)

4 years, $75M

Still one of the best closers in baseball, Diaz opted out of a remaining 3 years, $48M to hit the open market this winter. The Mets are largely expected to make a significant offer here, but it seems likely that more than a few teams will be sniffing around this situation.

Trent Grisham (29, CF, Yankees)

4 years, $60M

The former #15 overall pick by Milwaukee had a breakout season in his walk-year for the Yankees (34 homers, .813 OPS, 3.58 WAR). He showed flashes of this power during his time in San Diego, but clearly found a sweet spot in NY last season. It’s hard to imagine he’ll find an APY anywhere near the $22.025M QO price point this winter, but his defensive consistency combined with a little extra power should secure him a strong multi-year guarantee.

Brandon Woodruff (32, SP, Brewers)

2 years, $35M

Injuries have been the main headline for Woodruff’s past 4 seasons in Milwaukee, but when he’s right, he’s one of the most productive rotation arms in the game. With that said, he seems unreasonable to assume that teams will be clamoring to hand out a long-term guarantee with any kind of substance here. The 32-year-old is certainly a candidate to sign the QO and stick with his drafted team, but we’ll assume that he opts for a little more guaranteed money on a short-term deal this winter. It should also be noted that Woodruff received a $10M buyout in declining his $20M player option this month.

Zac Gallen (30, SP, Diamondbacks)

Signs the 1 year, $22.025M QO

Gallen’s consistency and production plummeted in each of the past two seasons, culminating in career-lows for the 2025 campaign. The 30-year-old Boras client projects toward a 4 year, $75M contract in our system, but could very well decide on taking the 1 year, $22.05M tender salary, betting on himself, and trying this again next winter (without the QO stink attached to him).

Gleyber Torres (28, 2B, Tigers)

Signs the 1 year, $22.025M QO

While the power numbers haven’t quite rebounded from big 2022-2023 seasons, Torres is still finding ways to fill up the stat board. Torres played out 2025 on a 1 year, $15M contract in Detroit and now projects toward a 4 year, $60M deal this time around. A QO attached to his name could slow/devalue his process however, which could prompt the 28-year-old to take the 1-tender (and a nice raise), and then re-enter free agency next winter.

After the 40% increase between 2023 and 2024 season-ending injuries (SEI), the 2025 season only having 25 new 2025 SEIs–including the two players who joined & returned this season—is a trend in the right direction. Below is a detailed breakdown of the season-ending injuries, looking at recent trends on timing, team, and injury type.

Looking at the trends of maternity leaves shows a dramatic increase year-over-year, showing that the NWSL’s collective bargaining agreement is truly making a difference in making players not have to choose between a salary and building a family. After only one in 2023, and six in 2024, the 2025 NWSL season has seen 14 players utilize the available maternity leave – not including Kailen Sherian who was marked as ‘excused’ for the single match she missed to be present for the birth of her daughter.

Compared to 2024, the 2025 season saw barely more preseason long-term injuries, but less in April around that early FIFA window—may have just pushed into early May—less around the summer window, and less toward the tail end of the season. As a reminder, in 2024 July/August had Olympics prep window and the Olympics, while 2025 July had federation tournaments (Euros, Africa Cup of Nations, Copa America, etc). The timing of playoffs around the late October window aligns between the two seasons. 

Team Breakdown

Examining the per team season-ending injuries, Portland topped out the chart with five, while Washington has had no new season-ending injuries in 2025 (they do have two 2024 SEI’s still on the inactive roster). Six of the fourteen clubs only had one season-ending injury—including the two sides who didn’t have a 2024 season-ending injury: North Carolina and San Diego. 

If you break down the impact of the numerous maternity leaves and season-ending injuries, Portland tops out the group with a combined seven players on long-term leave.

Injury Breakdown

Of the 25 season-ending injuries this season, it likely comes as no surprise that the largest bucket that players fall into is the ACL bucket. What is slightly surprising is that the 2024 season only had 11/32 (34%) of its SEI’s as ACL issues, but that even with a reduced number of season-ending injuries, the number of ACL injuries increased overall in 2025. 

With roughly 3 months until the 2026 MLS season kicks off, it’s extremely important to mention the fact that – teams are currently without a head coach.

As many teams enter the offseason, it becomes time where owners, presidents, & sporting directors come together with the goal to improve their rosters as well as their coaching staffs.

At this given moment, there are SIX MLS teams without a permanent head coach. Colorado Rapids, Los Angeles FC, New England Revolution, New York Red Bulls, Sporting Kansas City, & St. Louis City SC.

Here at Spotrac, we’re breaking down the Top 10 available coaches with MLS experience:

A quick caveat: Coaches such as Marc Dos Santos (Los Angeles FC), Marko Mitrović (New England) & Tata Martino (Atlanta United), who are front-runners or have reported agreements to become an MLS team’s next head coach will be omitted from this list. 

#1: Jim Curtin

• Previous Team: Philadelphia Union
• Age: 46
• Record: 174W - 93D -138L
• MLS Managerial Honors: (1) Supporters Shield (2020), 2x MLS Coach of the Year (2020, 2022)

There isn’t a single coach that is more sought after in Major League Soccer than former Philadelphia Union head coach Jim Curtin. The 46-year-old two-time MLS Coach of the Year was head coach of the Philadelphia Union from 2014-2024 & helped guide the club to their first-ever trophy (2020 Supporters’ Shield). The Philadelphia native is navigating the market but it’s obvious that he’ll only join a team if it’s the right opportunity. It’s important to note that though Curtin hasn’t coached since November of 2024, he is on a guaranteed contract through the 2026 season.

So far, D.C. United & New England Revolution have made official contact with the coach. Ultimately, nothing came to fruition with D.C. United & Curtin stepped away from the New England Revolution job on September 30th due to family reasons.

According to The Athletic’s Tom Bogert, Curtin will likely not take any job in 2026 due to those family reasons, barring special circumstances.

Photo courtesy of Adrian Heinsohn-Roe

#2: Peter Vermes

• Previous Team: Sporting Kansas City
• Age: 58
• Record: 251W - 127D - 213L
• MLS Managerial Honors: (1) MLS Cup (2013), (3) U.S. Open Cup (2012, 2015, 2017)

After spending nearly 16 seasons with Sporting Kansas City (Technical Director since 2006, head coach since 2009), Peter Vermes is on the market. 

In his coaching career, the 58-year-old has an MLS Cup Championship (2013) on his resume along with three US Open Cup titles (2012, 2015, 2017). He is currently 3rd all-time in terms of regular season victories & would completely turn around any team that gives him the keys to their project. 

In terms of interview processes, it has been reported that Vermes had interviewed for the New England Revolution job & is currently on the lookout for a new gig in MLS.

#3: Giovanni Savarese

• Previous Team: Portland Timbers
• Age: 54
• Record: 93W - 50D - 73L
• MLS Managerial Honors: (1) MLS is Back Tournament (2020)

If there is a manager that showcases winning tendencies in Major League Soccer, there aren’t many better choices than Giovanni Savarese. The 54-year-old head coach hasn’t coached since 2023 where he worked with the Portland Timbers until his dismissal in August of 2023.

It was shocking to see Savarese enter the 2025 season without a job as he was a finalist for multiple MLS clubs throughout the offseason.

Speaking to pundits across the league, many are still shocked that Savarese went the entire 2025 season without securing an MLS job & currently does not have an MLS head coaching job. The former coach is currently contributing to MLS Apple TV as an analyst for MLS Espanol.

There is no doubt in my mind, Savarese should be coaching in Major League Soccer.

In terms of interview processes, Savarese has had interviews with the New England Revolution, however, nothing came out of the visit.

#4: Vanni Sartini

• Previous Team: Vancouver WhiteCaps FC
• Age: 48
• Record: 61W - 33D - 53L
• MLS Managerial Honors: (3) Canadian Championships (2022, 2023, 2024)

Vanni Sartini is an interesting subject in terms of Major League Soccer job openings. 

The 48-year-old coach has been out of coaching since his dismissal from the Vancouver WhiteCaps in 2024. When citing a reason behind his previous dismissal, sources indicated that the club felt the team’s performance, while respectable, was not progressing. 

During his tenure with Vancouver, Sartini won 3-straight Canadian Championships & had 3-straight MLS Cup Playoff berths. 

The Italian coach has expressed a preference to stay in Major League Soccer & is looking to continue coaching.

In terms of interview processes, it has been reported that Sartini was a finalist for the New England Revolution job.

#5: Gary Smith

• Previous Team: Nashville SC
• Age: 56
• Record: 105W - 87D - 78L
• MLS Managerial Honors: (1) MLS Cup (2010)

The 56-year-old manager has had a lot of experience across the United States. He spent 2008-2011 with the Colorado Rapids & won an MLS Cup (2010). He took charge of Nashville SC back in 2017 when they were a part of the USL and continued to lead the group through their transition into MLS which was in 2019. From 20192-24, Smith led Nashville to two MLS Eastern Conference Semifinals & to the Quarterfinals of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

It’s been 550+ days since Gary Smith last coached in Major League Soccer, however, there’s no reason for the coach to be omitted from this list. 

His experience and 100+ MLS win resume makes him a top candidate for any MLS team looking to make a positive change at head coach.

In terms of interview processes, Smith has not had any interviews with clubs that have job openings according to sources.

#6: Josh Wolff

• Previous Team: Austin FC
• Age: 48
• Record: 45W - 30D - 60L
• MLS Managerial Honors: (0)

Josh Wolff is a coach that surprisingly has a lot of experience in the United States. The 48-year-old coach had experience as an Assistant Coach for D.C. United (2012) & Columbus Crew (2013-18). In 2018, he joined Gregg Berhalter’s staff with the United States Men’s National Team.

In 2019, Wolff was named the inaugural head coach of Austin FC, where he spent 2021-2024 with the club. His best season was a 2nd place regular season finish where he led Austin to the 2022 Western Conference Finals.

After two disastrous seasons (12th in 2023 & 10th in 2024) with Austin FC, Wolff was relieved of his duties on October 6, 2024. He didn’t remain jobless for long as on February 2, 2025, Wolff was hired as an Assistant Coach for Houston Dynamo FC.

In terms of interview processes, it has been reported that Wolff was a finalist for the New England Revolution job.

#7: John Herdman

• Previous Team: Toronto FC
• Age: 50
• Record: 17W - 4D- 25L
• MLS Managerial Honors: (0)

A transformative figure in terms of Canadian Soccer, John Herdman is a compelling coach that is currently without a job.

The 50-year-old head coach spent 2011-18 with the Canadian Women’s National Team & 2018-23 with the Canadian Men’s National Team. In October of 2023, Herdman left the national team to coach Toronto FC in MLS. 

During his tenure with Toronto FC, Herdman led Toronto to the League’s Cup group stage & a Canadian Championship Final.  Herdman resigned from Toronto FC on November 28, 2024.

Herdman would be an ideal candidate for MLS, however, he doesn’t come without potential controversy. In 2024, following the Canada National Teams being penalized at the 2024 Summer Olympics for the use of drones, a panel concluded that Herdman had engaged in unspecified "misconduct" under its disciplinary code and was issued a letter of admonishment, the least severe possible sanction. In the end, Herdman acknowledged the outcome but defended his conduct.

In terms of interview processes, Herdman has not had any interviews with clubs that have job openings according to sources.

#8: Laurent Courtois

• Previous Team: CF Montréal
• Age: 47
• Record: 12W - 12D - 21L
• MLS Managerial Honors: 1x MLS NEXT Pro Coach of the Year

Laurent Courtois is an intriguing option for MLS teams to consider during the 2025 offseason. Courtois has a good deal of experience across the United States both as a player and as a manager. Following 3 seasons in Columbus Crew’s Academy (2019-22), Courtois was named the inaugural head coach of Columbus Crew 2 ahead of its first season in MLS NEXT Pro. In his first season, Courtois led Crew 2 to the club’s first ever championship & was named MLS NEXT Pro Coach of the year.

In January of 2024, Courtois was named head coach of CF Montréal and led the team to the MLS Eastern Conference Playoffs in his first season. Unfortunately, after a five game winless start to the 2025 season, CF Montréal pulled the trigger and relieved Courtois of his duties. He was the first coach fired during the 2025 season.

Overall, I like the idea of Laurent Courtois in Major League Soccer. With the right team and backing from ownership, Courtois could be an exciting figure in the MLS sphere if a team will allow him the keys to the car and allow him to make the necessary changes.

In terms of interview processes, Courtois has been asked details in regard to potential coaching avenues by multiple teams. He’s had one official interview process at this time. He is linked to St. Louis City SC (per sources)

#9: Troy Lesesne

• Previous Team: D.C. United
• Age: 42
• Record: 33W - 21D - 38L
• MLS Managerial Honors: (0)

The young 42-year-old coach has quite the resume in regards to coaching experience in the United States. 

Lesesne has ten years experience as a collegiate Assistant Coach for the College of Charleston, his alma mater. The young coach was named a top-20 assistant coach in the nation in 2011 & 2013 and was named in UnitedSoccerCoaches “Top 30 Under 30” coaches program back in 2013. 

As an Assistant in the professional sphere began with Charleston Battery (2014) and then with Charlotte Independence (2015-17). 

In 2018, he was named Technical Director & Head coach of USL Championship expansion side New Mexico United (2018-21). In three seasons with New Mexico United, Lesesne made two playoff appearances & made it to the Quarterfinals of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Following the end of the 2021 season, Lesesne was offered a contract extension which he ultimately declined offer & then resigned.

Less than two months later, He received his first job in MLS as an Assistant Coach for New York Red Bulls. In May of 2023, he was named interim head coach for the remainder of the season. He was not extended after the 2023 season. Later, in January of 2024, Lesesne was hired as head coach for D.C. United on a three-year contract. On July 9th, 2025, Troy was removed from D.C. United. Rumors have circulated that the club was conducting interviews while Lesesne was still employed.

Lesesne is a young and exciting prospect in the coaching sphere and could be an interesting choice for any team that is willing to experiment. I’d argue that Lesesne was not the problem at D.C. United & was forced to play a difficult hand & bite the bullet. I’d say that with the right team, he could be an exciting project.

In terms of interview processes, Lesesne has not had any interviews with clubs that have job openings according to sources.

Photo courtesy of Adrian Heinsohn-Roe

#10: Caleb Porter

• Previous Team: New England Revolution
• Age: 50
• Record: 160W - 107D - 146L
• MLS Managerial Honors: (2) MLS Cups (2015, 2020), (1) Campeones Cup (2021), 1x MLS Coach of the Year (2013)

Caleb Porter is a coach that has over 27-years of experience in Major League Soccer as both a player & a coach. 

The 50-year-old has coached for Portland Timbers (2013-17), Columbus Crew (2019-22) & New England Revolution (2023-25). In his career, he is a 1x MLS Coach of the Year & 2x MLS Cup Champion. He has proven that he can win on the big stage, but, at the same time, he has missed the playoffs in 7 out of his 11 seasons as a head coach in Major League Soccer.

His most recent tenure with the New England Revolution was extremely disappointing as he missed the playoffs in back-to-back seasons (14th in 2024, 11th in 2025). He was dismissed as head coach on September 15th, 2025 with four matches to go in the 2025 MLS Season..

Following his dismissal, I spoke with a handful of his former players on the condition of anonymity. They were extremely outspoken on Porter’s overall ethical being, decision making, and on/off field conduct. 

It’ll be intriguing to see if any teams take the risk of Caleb Porter after his abysmal tenure in New England.

In terms of interview processes, Porter has not had any interviews with clubs that have job openings according to sources.

For the second consecutive season, St. Louis City SC missed the MLS Cup Playoffs.

The team started the season off hot with 2 wins & 3 draws to begin the season but immediately fell into ruts that were difficult to get out of. 

From March 15th to May 24th, the team went on an 11 game MLS winless streak, which led to the dismissal of head coach Olof Mellberg.

With interim head coach David Critchley at the helm, St. Louis was in a fix-it-now gameplan, secured a win at the end of May, but still had two more months of the season where they went winless, in June & August.

At the end of August, Sporting Director Lutz Pfannenstiel was fired.

It’s very difficult for any team to get into a playoff spot when you undergo a coaching change & the bulk of your season you go winless.

With their roster decisions published, St. Louis City SC will have a monumental amount of roster flexibility. In the offseason guide:

The Positives

The Designated Players for St. Louis carried the majority of the offensive workload for the squad this season as João Klauss (10 goals & 3 assists) and Marcel Hartel (9 goals & 6 assists) combined for 28 goal contributions.

With the framework of Hartel & Klauss, St. Louis can use the midfielder & forward duo to build upon into the 2026 campaign. The club has solid offensive structure, but they need to build upon it.

This team has $2,603,976 in GAM (as of Sept. 15) to build toward the 2026 season. A lot of improvements can be made to this roster.

The Negatives

Going winless in April, June, & August was never going to get this team to the playoffs. It’s just that simple.

Offensively, the team scored 44 goals (6 less than last season) and were T-13th in the conference for goals scored.

Defensively, the team struggled, as they allowed 58 goals on the season (which is surprisingly better than last year where they allowed 63), but still had the 11th most goals allowed in the West.

Injuries also haunted this team. Starting goalkeeper Roman Bürki broke his hand in March that sidelined him until mid-May. Teuchert, Totland, & Kessler dealt with hamstring injuries for the majority of the season and Durkin & Baumgartl dealt with knee injuries all season.

My biggest gripe about this St. Louis City side that was constructed by Olaf Mellberg & Lutz Pfannenstiel is that it was made & operated in a European style. In MLS, that’s not going to work. It’s clear that this team is making the correct strides to fix the issues involved & can potentially get back to positive ways, however, the club needed to make changes.

Roster Flexibility

St. Louis City SC has a lot of flexibility. At the moment, the club has two designated players (Roman Bürki & Marcel Hartel) and two U-22 initiative signings (Chris Durkin & Jake Girdwood-Reich). This club can decide whether or not it wants to enter the 3DP, 3U22 player model or enter the 2DP and 4 U-22s model, which includes up to $2 million in GAM, pending which route they go.

The club announced their end-of-season roster update, where they announced most contract option decisions. The club is entering the 2026 season with 22 players rostered. 

With $2,435,816 in GAM (as of Sept. 15) to build toward the 2026 season, the club can revolutionize this roster and return back to what this team was during their inaugural season.

Offseason Priorities

The club has already been busy this offseason as they already have appointed Corey Wray as their new Sporting Director to oversee all areas of CITY’s sporting operations including roster strategy, scouting and recruitment, and player health and performance, while using his expertise in analytics and player development to create a seamless pathway from the academy to the first team. This roster will be fixed.

Wray has over 20 years of MLS experience, including working in technical roles at Toronto FC, Columbus Crew and CF Montréal.

The biggest offseason priority right now for this club is to hire a head coach.

Once that is determined, the head coach & Wray can work together in determining a roster model, finding the pieces, & constructing a solid product for St. Louis.

The next plan of action is to sign players to build around your designated players. 

Signing a forward, a center back, & some more midfielder depth will help this team drastically.

Sometimes trade deadlines come and go with plenty of hope, but little substance. 2025 was not one of those deadlines. The following is a piece by piece breakdown of each trade processed between October 27th, right up to the November 4th final whistle, including financial ramifications for each.

Chargers acquire OL Trevor Penning in exchange for a 2027 6th Round Pick

Trevor Penning (OL)

$1.3M remaining (cap/cash)

The Saints declined a $16.6M 5th-Year option for 2026, putting Penning in a contract year this season. The 26-year-old has been playing mostly guard in NO of late, but is almost certainly going to be asked to move back to the tackle position in LAC to account for injuries to both Rashwan Slater and Joe Alt.

Cowboys acquire DL Quinnen Williams from the Jets in exchange for DL Mazi Smith, a 2027 1st Round Pick, and a 2026 2nd Round Pick

Quinnen Williams (DT)

2.5 years, $55.6M remaining including:
2025: $8.4M (gtd)
2026: $21.75M ($5M gtd, $2.6M more March 15th)
2027: $25.5M

The Jets take on dead cap hits of $13.2M in 2025 ($8.4M saved), and $9.8M in 2026 ($16.85M saved). With only $7.6M (14%) of his 2026 compensation containing early vesting guarantees, it’s reasonable to assume that the 28-year-old would be interested in a refreshed deal from Dallas next spring/summer.

Mazi Smith (DT)

1.5 years, $3.5M remaining (plus an option)
2025: $978k (gtd)
2026: $2.56M (gtd)
2027: 5th-Year Option

The #26 overall pick out of Michigan in 2023 has largely underperformed in Dallas, and will seemingly have big shoes to fill now on the revamped Jets D-Line.

Draft Picks

The Jets secure an additional 2nd Round pick (from DAL) for 2026, and their third 2027 1st Round Pick, which is slated to be the higher of Dallas’ selections.

Bears acquire ED Joe Tryon and a 2026 7th Round Pick from the Browns in exchange for a 2026 6th Round Pick

Joe Tryon (DE)

$585,000 remaining (cap/cash) + $500k of potential incentives

With Dayo Odeyingbo now out for the season, the Bears were in search of added help on the D-Line. Tryon has been in a reserve role for Cleveland this year, but brings 3+ seasons of starter experience.

Seahawks acquire WR Rashid Shaheed from the Saints in exchange for a 2026 4th Round Pick and a 2026 5th Round Pick

Rashid Shaheed (WR)

$2.1M remaining (cap/cash)

The 2022 UDFA out of Weber State brings over 44 catches, 500 yards and 2 TDs to an already potent Seattle offense. New Orleans probably could have garnered themselves a 4th round compensatory draft pick in 2027 by keeping Shaheed and letting him hit the open market next March, but now get to cash in on that a year early, with a 5th as icing on the cake.

Colts acquire CB Ahmad (Sauce) Gardner in exchange for WR Adonai Mitchell, a 2026 1st Round Pick, and a 2027 1st Round Pick

Ahmad Gardner (CB)

5.5 years, $131.5M remaining, including:

Gardner signed a 4 year, $120.4M extension with the Jets this past July, but a minimal ($13.75M) signing bonus means limited dead cap damage for the Jets, who take on hits of $8.75M in 2025 ($625k saved), and $11M in 2026 ($1.25M saved).

Adonai Mitchell (WR)

2.5 years, $3.26M remaining, including:
2025: $565,365 (gtd)
2026: $1,466,462 ($700k gtd)
2027: $1,802,193

Mitchell never found his stride in 25 games with the Colts, but was a highly touted prospect as a 2nd round pick out of Georgia back in 2024. He’ll pair with Garrett Wilson for the next generation of the Jets offense (TBD).

Draft Picks

The Jets needed a “wow me” offer to consider moving on from their cornerstone defensive back, and the Colts did just that. New York is now setup with two 1st round picks in 2026, and 3 1st rounders for what is projecting to be an excellent 2027 draft.

Jaguars acquire WR Jakobi Meyers in exchange for a 2026 4th Round pick and a 2026 6th Round pick

Jakobi Meyers (WR)

$5.25M + $14,705 per game active bonus remaining

Injuries to both Travis Hunter and Brian Thomas Jr. forced Jacksonville to be aggressive at the deadline. Meyers was probably going to secure Las Vegas a 2027 4th round pick via the compensatory program, but now they get one a year early, with a 6th rounder and $5.3M cash/cap saved on top of it. Meyers leaves behind dead cap hits of $9.6M this season, and $4.3M next year for the Raiders.

Cowboys acquire LB Logan Wilson in exchange for a 2026 7th Round pick

Logan Wilson (ILB)

2.5 years, $16.6M remaining, including:
2025: $2.9M (gtd)
2026: $6.55M
2027: $7.2M

The writing was on the wall for this one, as Wilson requested out of Cincinnati a few weeks back, and Dallas has been openly campaigning for help in the middle of their defense simultaneously. It’s a $3M rental until it’s not for the Cowboys, as the 29-year-old  has no guarantees after 2025 on this contract.

Ravens acquire ED Dre’Mont Jones from the Titans in exchange for a conditional 2026 5th Round pick

Dre'Mont Jones (OLB)

$1.265M remaining (cash/cap)

Jones signed a 1 year, $8.5M free agent contract with Tennessee this past March that includes another $1.5M of incentives based on sacks/playing time. He’s already vested $500k of that with 5 sacks, and should get plenty of more opportunities on a depleted Ravens front line. The Titans take on a $7.2M dead cap hit per this move, while the conditions that would see the 5th round pick convey to a 4th are still yet to be determined.

Eagles acquire ED Jaelen Phillips from Miami in exchange for a 2026 3rd round pick

Jaelan Phillips (OLB)

$1.5M remaining (cap/cash)

The Dolphins retained an additional $5.125M of salary to facilitate this trade and buy themselves a meatier Top 100 draft pick. Miami takes on $11.76M of total dead cap per this transaction. There’s a realistic world where the Eagles get this 3rd round pick back in 2027 via the compensatory draft formula.

Eagles acquire CB Jaire Alexander and a 2027 7th Round pick from the Ravens in exchange for a 2026 6th Round pick

Jaire Alexander (CB)

$1M remaining (cap/cash)

Alexander exits Baltimore after taking just 61 snaps, earning $3M for his efforts. The Eagles will take a $1M flier on him bringing a little extra depth to their secondary down the stretch. The 28-year-old has $2M of playing time incentives (35%-60% snaps) available as well.

Eagles acquire CB Michael Carter II and a 2027 7th Round pick from the Jets in exchange for WR John Metchie and a 2027 6th Round pick

Michael Carter II (CB)

2.5 years, $21.7M remaining, including:
2025: $1.2M (gtd)
2026: $10.25M ($1.4M gtd)
2027: $10.25M

Carter figures to slot into a depth role for the Eagles, but could also be more than a rental piece (especially with $1.4M guaranteed in 2026).

John Metchie (WR)

$1M remaining (cap/cash)

Metchie took 31 snaps for the Eagles, grabbing 4 catches for 18 yards in 7 games of work (earning $804k). He’s owed another $1M through 2025, before heading to restricted free agency (missed all of 2022 with an illness).

49ers acquire LB Keion White and a 2026 7th Round pick from New England in exchange for a 2026 6th Round pick

Keion White (OLB)

1.5 years, $2.9M remaining, including:
2025: $1.17M
2026: $1.81M

White secured 5 sacks, 56 tackles, and 2 forced fumbles for the 2024 Patriots, but had fallen out of favor in New England. He joins an injury-riddled 49ers team looking for experienced help wherever they can get it.

Steelers acquire S Kyle Dugger and a 2026 7th Round pick from New England in exchange for a 2026 6th Round pick

Kyle Dugger (S)

$650,000 remaining (cap/cash)

The Patriots retained an additional $4.76M here to facilitate the trade, taking on dead hits of $12M in 2025 ($10.95M cash), and $12.1M in 2026. Pittsburgh now gets a 9 week look at Dugger at a vet minimum price, as the remainder of his contract has been voided, making him a UFA next March.

Rams acquire CB Roger McCreary and a 2026 6th Round pick from Tennessee in exchange for a 2026 5th Round pick

Roger McCreary (CB)

$2M remaining (cap/cash)

The 2022 2nd round pick is in a walk year, set to hit the free agent market for the first time next March. A change of scenery to one of the best teams in football might be just what the doctor ordered to replenish his value a bit.

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After a fantastic season in 2024 that saw LA Galaxy win the MLS Cup Final, the expectation heading into 2025 was that the reigning champs would begin right where they had left off, unfortunately, that was not the case whatsoever. 

Riqui Puig being out the entirety of the 2025 season as he spent his season recovering from his Torn ACL that he sustained in November of 2024, did not help. This squad struggled. Bad. 

Los Angeles won their first MLS game on May 31st. 16 games into the season. That’s really bad.

This team scored 23 less goals in comparison to last season & allowed 16 more goals. They struggled both offensively and defensively

With their roster decisions published, LAG will have some roster flexibility. In the offseason guide:

The Positives

Joseph Paintsil remained consistent and showcased why he is a designated player for this roster. Yes, he had five less goal contributions in comparison to last year, however, 15 goal contributions in 2025 (10 goals & 5 assists) are what you expect out of a DP player. Joske was a beam of light that managed to shine through the dark clouds that surrounded this team.

LA Galaxy player of the year Diego Fagundez also shined for the club. With Puig out, Diego filled the midfield role & contributed 6 goals & 3 assists, matching his 9-goal contribution total from last season.

One massive positive for LA was the fact that they were 4th in all of MLS in terms of average possession (54.3%). They trailed only Inter Miami CF (56.9%), Columbus Crew SC (58.8%) & San Diego FC (61.4%). The Galaxy was comfortable on the ball & that's a massive positive.

My most glaring positive — Los Angeles didn’t finish last place in 2025. Also, Riqui Puig will be healthy in 2026.

Though they struggled in MLS — their biggest result was finishing third in leagues cup, which guaranteed the club a spot in the Concacaf Champions Cup for the 2026 season. 

The Negatives

Gabriel Pec struggled. I do believe that it is unfair as I did mention in the positives that Paintsil had 15 goal contributions (as did Pec with 6 goals & 9 assists), however, Pec had 30 last season. So, in total, he contributed half of what he did last year.

Forward Christian Ramirez was also extremely disappointing. Coming in as the replacement for Dejan Joveljic, 4 goals & 1 assists on the year is simply not good enough. LA needs to find a permanent option at striker, especially if U22 forward Matheus Nascimento (on loan) doesn’t return to the club. 

The glaring negative was the fact that the team scored 23 less goals and allowed 16 more goals in comparison last year. They lost 18 games on the year. That’s bad. Looking at the squad, on the offensive side, Riqui Puig missing didn’t help as the squad essentially missed out on 35+ goal contributions (had 17 goals & 18 assists in 2024), however, on the defensive side, not much changed. McCarthy was replaced by Mićović & the backline was rotated occasionally.

Another glaring negative was the fact that this team was woeful at defending set-pieces. The biggest reason they lost to Toluca in the Campeones Cup was set pieces. This isn’t monumental news as the team hasn’t really been great at defending them for 3+ years. Something needs to change

Overall, this team needs better depth pieces. An injury to Riqui Puig cannot be the reason you go from MLS Champions to the 5th worst team in the league.

Roster Flexibility

Los Angeles enters this offseason with very little flexibility. At the moment, the club has three designated players (Riqui Puig, Joseph Paintsil & Gabriel Pec) and have 2 rostered U-22 initiative signings (Julian Aude, Lucas Sanabria). They only have $120,580 in GAM (as of Sept. 18, 2025).

The club announced their year-end roster update, where they announced most contract option decisions.

The glaring moves were that LA Galaxy Player of the Year Diego Fagundez’ option was declined. Fagundez is currently negotiating with the club in regard to a potential return. U22 forward Matheus Nascimento’s loan (from Botafogo) also concluded, however, Galaxy is in talks with the parent club to extend the loan.

Forward Miguel Berry & defender Eriq Zavaleta’s options were also declined.

The club is entering the 2026 season with 25 total players rostered.

Offseason Priorities

Attempt to re-sign Fagundez & determine whether or not they will be able to retain at Nascimento. If they cannot retain Nascimento, will they use their open U22 spot on an impactful player? They’ll also need to determine what positional need is the most glaring.

It’s clear that Gregg Vanney believes that this team doesn’t need a lot of changes and that the 2025 campaign was essentially a fluke. Vanney is confident in this group & has the backing of ownership. Even through the struggling 2025 campaign, he was given a contract extension, so, it’s safe to say that he is here for the future.

This is a playoff team. No questions asked. The biggest goal for this team entering 2026 is remaining healthy and starting the season on the right foot.