The DC Defenders have brought back an incredibly important piece for 2025. They’ve re-signed WR Chris Rowland for the upcoming UFL campaign, who made quite the impact for DC in multiple ways this past season.
The #UFL has announced the following transactions pic.twitter.com/mqek80hwGf
— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) October 7, 2024
Chris Rowland has been a staple of the spring football scene for years. He began his spring career with the Philadelphia Stars in the USFL, spending two seasons with the team. In 2022, he was a part of a Stars unit that made a Championship run, posting 215 yards and a touchdown.
We have our first @USFL touchdown in season two! No surprise, @CaptainCookus10 picks up right where he left off: throwing touchdowns, this one to @crowland30.
Excellent first drive for the @USFLStars, & they lead 7-0 after the Cookus-Rowland score. #USFLpic.twitter.com/vr2niGwfrC
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) April 15, 2023
Unfortunately, 2023 would tell a different story. He had nine catches for 83 yards through three weeks – but an injury in their week three matchup against Pittsburgh would ultimately sideline him for the rest of the season.
This led to Chris Rowland ultimately getting picked up by the DC Defenders when the USFL and XFL merged. While he played a small role early in the year, Rowland quickly became an integral piece to Fred Kaiss’ offense. Chris totaled 20 receptions for 262 yards and three touchdowns with DC in 2024.
Chris Rowland hit the JETS 🔥✌️
On 4th & 2 the @XFLDefenders go for it and come up with a touchdown! pic.twitter.com/bmYqnw3y8Q
— United Football League (@TheUFL) May 26, 2024
However, where he saw the most production was on special teams. Chris had an outstanding year as a kick returner, with 45 returns for 1,226 yards. According to PFF, his special teams grade was a spectacular 93.2. This earned Rowland All-UFL honors as a return specialist.
THE FIRST KICKOFF…
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