The Revolution entered the 2017 season with quality at every position group. New additions along the back line pushed fringe starters London Woodberry and Je-Vaughn Watson into key reserve roles. A healthy Xavier Kouassi rounded out a crowded—and talented—midfield. The return of four forwards (and the introduction of one more) eased concerns about attacking depth.
To top off the roster, the club simply needed to add a few depth pieces. But those pieces never came. At the onset of the season, club GM Mike Burns—seemingly pleased with his early-season squad—said he intentionally left roster spots open.