DC Defenders Roster: Position-By-Position Breakdown

The DC Defenders are one of the strongest outfits in the revamped edition of the XFL. XFL 2023 features a new DC Defenders roster along with new jerseys and a new coaching staff. Playing their home games in the Audi Field, the Defenders are competing in the North Division of the XFL. The Defenders look dangerous in the attack with three top quarterbacks Eric Dungey, D'Eriq King, and Jordan Ta'amu, all competing for the starting spot. With XFL 2023 underway, take a peek into how the DC Defenders fare for this season.

Who are the key players on the DC Defenders’ Roster?

The DC Defenders squad is power packed for the 2023 XFL season. Quarterback Jordan Ta’amu is the most experienced attacking player on the squad. He has had stints with the Houston Texans, Detroit Lions, Kansas City Chiefs, Washington Football Team and the Carolina Panthers. He managed a passer rating of 76.2 with the Tampa Bay Bandits of the USFL last year. Ta’amu will definitely provide an expansive range of passing for the team to unlock defenses.

Undoubtedly, The Defenders have one of the top linebacking groups in the XFL, Between Anthony Hines, who was regarded as the best inside linebacker in his 2017 recruiting class, and the physically aggressive Reggie Northrup. Francis Bernard, who was named to the first team of the PAC 12 for the Defenders after his senior year at Utah, will start as a middle linebacker. Jamal Brooks and Ferrod Gardner are more names to look out for at the linebacker position. Linebacker Reggie Northrup is another force to be reckoned with. The former L.A. Rams and Washington Redskins’ player had a great season in the USFL with the Houston Gamblers and will provide valuable experience to the DC Defenders squad.

Running back Ryquell Armstead will be a great option for the Defenders’ quarterbacks as he is a tough runner and an exemplary pass catcher.

Kicker Matt McCrane had his first XFL stint with the New York Guardians where he made 8 out of 8 kicks. The former NFL kicker looks to impress for the DC Defenders too.

Defensive tackles NFL veterans Niles Scott and Joseph Wallace are strong defensive options in the middle of the park. Former Green Bay Packer, Kentrell Brice as a safety adds great defensive depth to the Defenders too.

Who is the starting quarterback for the DC Defenders?

The DC Defenders have ample support when it comes to the quarterback department. Jordan Ta’amu is currently the starting quarterback for the DC Defenders. Ta’amu played at the New Mexico Military Institute for two seasons before transferring to Ole Miss in 2017. He passed for 3,918 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions during his final year. He rushed for 342 yards and 6 touchdowns as well. He concluded the season ranked second in SEC passing yards.

Having been signed and released by the Houston Texans in 2019, Ta’amu was the first XFL signing for the St. Louis Battlehawks in 2019. Ta’amu spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs, Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers and Washington Football Teams’ practice squads before getting regular game time with the Tampa Bay Bandits of the USFL. Ta’amu signed with the DC Defenders for the 2023 XFL season and comes in as one of the most potent dual-threat quarterbacks in the league.

Who are the coaches for the DC Defenders?

What is the overall skill level of the DC Defenders Roster?

The DC Defenders are a team with one of the strongest rosters in the XFL. The Defenders have a strong attacking unit and look to make it to the XFL playoffs. The Defenders are packed with playmakers in all three phases of the game and their running backs look like the most potent threat in attack. The Defenders have a versatile attack which will help them adapt to any type of play style.

The DC Defenders also have a balanced defense and can create pressure on opposing attackers. There is plenty of depth in the cornerback and safety roles. With head coach Reggie Barlow at the helm, the Defenders look to have a shot at the XFL title.

How does the DC Defenders’ Roster compare to other teams in the NFL?

The DC Defenders are one of the stronger contenders in the league with a well-balanced squad at head coach Reggie Barlow’s disposal. The team looks adept in attack with the support of quarterback Jordan Ta’amu and running back Ryquell Armstead. The defensive line also looks strong with Anthony Hines and Reggie Northrup. The Defenders have a strong roster which can prove to be a challenge to most teams in the XFL 2023.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the DC Defenders’ Roster?

Strengths

The Defenders have a solid coaching staff going into the new season, led by Reggie Barlow, who wants to build on his prior success at Virginia State. The remaining members of the coaching staff are Gregg Williams, who is renowned for employing aggressive, attacking 4-3 systems, and Jamie Sharper, who played on the Baltimore Ravens squad that won their first Super Bowl.

Players like Eric Dungey, D'Eriq King, and Jordan Ta'amu are strong players in the Defenders' quarterback room. Other important players include Jequez Ezzard, a breakout talent from Sam Houston State, and Abram Smith, who averaged 6 yards per run during his collegiate career at Baylor.

The Defenders are regarded as one of the best teams to defeat in the XFL 2023 season thanks to their exceptional skill and knowledgeable coaching staff. They are prepared to challenge for the XFL championship with a resilient defense and a strong attack.

Weaknesses

Even with a strong Quarterback room and an amazing coaching staff, the players ultimately decide the outcome. The offensive skill group for the Defenders is unmatched, but there aren't many well-known players on the offensive line, which should alarm supporters. The team has the ability to make a significant run at the XFL title despite the offensive line still being a concern under the direction of seasoned coaches Reggie Barlow and Gregg Williams.

How has the DC Defenders’ Roster changed from 2020?

All XFL teams including the DC Defenders have an entirely new roster in 2023. The entire roster is new compared to the 2020 Defenders’ roster. XFL held a fresh draft for the 2023 season where each team filled in their 51-man roster.

What are the contract details for the players on the DC Defenders’ Roster?

The contract system in the XFL is set to be standard for each and every team. Since each team competing in the league is also owned by the owners of XFL, the contracts are the same for every player. Here are the standardized contract details for XFL players in 2023:

2023 Training Camp: $800/week

2023 Active Roster: $5,000/week

2023 Practice Squad: $1,500/week

2023 Regular Season/Playoff Win: $1,000/win