The Columbus Crew ended the 2020 season as MLS Cup champions. The roster is strong, but turnover is constant. The other constant in Major League Soccer, minding the myriad roster compliance rules and salary budget. The salary budget is still shrouded in mystery, but the picture for roster compliance is a little clearer as the league opens up. This is the first look at where the Black & Gold’s roster stands as they approach the season as defending champions.
The team has already made its first moves of the offseason. The Monday after the MLS Cup Final, the Black & Gold executed the contract options on eight players and had an additional 14 players on guaranteed contracts.