Well ahead of the start of the 2021 preseason, D.C. United has signed first round pick Michael DeShields to a contract. United traded up to get into position to select the 6’1” center back during last month’s MLS SuperDraft, sending $125,000 in allocation money to Atlanta United in order to have a shot at picking the Wake Forest Demon Deacons defender.
In a team press release, United GM Dave Kasper said “Michael impressed us with his physicality, athleticism, and composure on the ball during his time with Wake Forest. We are adding important depth at center back and we’re excited that we were able to acquire someone of Michael’s pedigree in the draft.