B. Dowd Chicago Fire FC Goalkeeper 31: Career Highlights and Recent Performances

Bryan Dowd—let’s talk about this guy. He’s making some real noise for Chicago Fire FC as their number 31. The Fire snatched him up sixth overall in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft, and by January 2024, Dowd had inked his first pro contract. That was a big deal for both him and the club.

At just 21, Dowd has already moved up the soccer ladder, spending time with Chicago FC United and recently heading out on loan to Huntsville City FC. People around the league are definitely starting to notice.

Dowd brings a lot to the table—he’s 6’3” and plays with a focus that really steadies the back line. The Fire needed some depth in goal, and Dowd’s brought it. He’s also made training sessions more competitive, which is exactly what you want from a young keeper looking to set the tone.

Now that he’s got some pro games under his belt, you have to wonder—will he lock down a long-term spot in Chicago, or will this loan spell show everyone what he can do?

Profile of Bryan Dowd

Bryan Dowd is one of those goalkeepers you just can’t help but root for. He’s young, driven, and already making waves for Chicago Fire FC. His story, from growing up in the Chicago area to signing as a pro, honestly says a lot about his background and his drive.

Personal Background

Bryan Dowd grew up in Illinois, and soccer grabbed him early on. Willow Springs, his hometown, is a small place but big on sports. Some records say he was born in Oak Park, but either way, the Chicago area really shaped him as an athlete.

His family got behind him from the start, helping him join local soccer clubs. Dowd sharpened his skills with Chicago FC United in USL League Two before making the jump to college and, eventually, the pros.

In early 2024, Dowd signed with Chicago Fire FC after a standout college run. He credits his work ethic and those deep Chicago roots for getting him to the Major League Soccer stage.

Date of Birth and Age

Bryan Dowd was born on March 8, 2002. As of June 2025, he’s 23 years old.

That makes him one of the younger keepers in MLS, which gives him plenty of runway to keep improving.

Here’s a quick look at his info:

Attribute	Value
Date of Birth	March 8, 2002
Age (June 2025)	23
Birthplace	Oak Park, IL

Even though he’s young, Dowd already has some pro experience with Chicago Fire FC II and a few loan stints in the lower leagues. That kind of early résumé shows real promise. For more on his stats, check Transfermarkt.

Physical Attributes

Dowd stands tall—literally. At 6 feet 3 inches, he’s got the kind of reach you want in a shot-stopper.

His height, mixed with quick reflexes and solid positioning, makes him tough to beat. Dowd’s size really helps him on set pieces and when he’s one-on-one with attackers.

He’s strong in the box and doesn’t shy away from contact. That confidence? It’s become a big part of his game.

Coaches and fans love how he takes charge and distributes the ball. That’s what you need from a modern keeper. You can find more about his numbers at MLSsoccer.com.

Club Career at Chicago Fire FC

Bryan Dowd didn’t waste much time after getting drafted. He moved up fast and gave Chicago Fire FC exactly what they needed—a steady hand in goal.

He’s played important minutes for the first team and made some big contributions during loan spells.

Joining Chicago Fire FC

Dowd joined Chicago Fire FC after the club picked him sixth in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft. They didn’t hesitate—he signed his pro contract in January 2024.

Chicago was looking for some stability at keeper, and Dowd came in ready to compete. He impressed right away in preseason, taking charge in the box and showing off his leadership.

Fans welcomed him, hoping he’d be the answer to some recent goalkeeping struggles. Dowd’s path included strong college play and time at Chicago FC United, so expectations were high.

Appearances and Statistics

In his first season, Dowd focused on earning minutes with both the main squad and Chicago Fire FC II. He got plenty of time with the reserves and showed up every match with professionalism and solid play.

By May 2025, Dowd also went out on loan to get more first-team reps.

Bryan Dowd — 2024/25 Season (All Competitions):

Squad	Matches	Starts	Clean Sheets	Saves	Goals Against
Chicago Fire FC	3	3	1	11	4
Chicago Fire FC II	18	18	7	68	16
On Loan (Huntsville)	6	6	3	23	5

Most of his stats came with Fire II, but those MLS appearances gave coaches a good look at his reflexes and composure. He organized defenders well and earned praise for his training habits.

Notable Performances

Dowd’s first clean sheet for the senior team came in a big 1-0 win. He made a late penalty save that sealed all three points for Chicago Fire FC.

He also turned in a monster performance for Fire II in MLS NEXT Pro, racking up 8 saves in a dramatic draw that kept playoff hopes alive.

During his loan at Huntsville City FC, Dowd collected three clean sheets in just six matches. He made highlight-reel stops and started turning heads as one of the league’s top young keepers.

He’s built a reputation as a calm, businesslike shot-stopper. Every time he steps on the field, you can see the improvement—fans and coaches have both noticed.

Role as Goalkeeper

B. Dowd has made a name for himself with steady play and nerves of steel. He’s technical, consistent, and just doesn’t seem to get rattled.

Playing Style and Strengths

Dowd’s calmness and smart positioning stand out. He almost never gets caught out, and that lets him make clutch saves when it counts.

Defenders trust him to handle shots from anywhere—distance or close up, he’s got it covered.

He reacts fast, especially in one-on-one situations. Dowd reads the game well and cuts down clear chances before they develop.

He’s vocal, too, organizing the defense during set pieces. That’s huge for a young keeper.

His clean sheet record speaks for itself. In college, he kept four straight shutouts during Notre Dame’s ACC title run. That kind of consistency gives the team real confidence.

Accolades and Honors

Dowd’s college days were packed with awards. At Notre Dame, he was a key piece in their ACC title, not giving up a single goal in the tournament.

He earned ACC Goalkeeper of the Year and then got drafted sixth overall by Chicago Fire FC in 2024. After signing his contract, the club trusted him enough to send him on loan to Huntsville City FC in MLS NEXT Pro, where he got valuable pro minutes.

Here’s a quick rundown of his top honors:

Award/Honor	Year
ACC Goalkeeper of the Year	2023
ACC Tournament Clean Sheets	2023
MLS SuperDraft 1st Round #6	2024
Huntsville City FC Loan	2024

Technical Skills

Dowd’s technical skills are impressive for his age. He’s got steady hands and a shot-stopping technique that rarely lets him down.

When he faces tough saves, he falls back on his fundamentals—good footwork and sharp timing.

He’s also great at distribution, whether he’s rolling it short or launching a long ball to start a counter. That’s huge in today’s game, where keepers are almost like extra defenders.

Dowd covers ground quickly and commands his penalty area. His technical ability really sets him apart from other young keepers. You can dive deeper into his journey at his MLS profile.

Early Development and Youth Career

Bryan Dowd’s journey started with a solid foundation—good training, lots of competition, and some strong mentors in Illinois soccer circles. He worked his way up through some of the best youth systems in the state.

Fire Academy Experience

Dowd joined the Chicago Fire Academy as a teenager. Coaches noticed his sharp reflexes and reliable footwork right away.

The academy pushed him to make decisions faster and stay consistent. He handled pressure well, especially during showcase tournaments.

Training with the senior team gave Dowd access to experienced keepers and specialized drills. He worked on communication, positioning, and quick distribution every day.

His leadership made him a regular starter against some of the Midwest’s toughest youth teams. For young Illinois players, Dowd’s rise is proof that hard work and focus pay off.

Chicago FC United and USL League Two

Dowd’s move to Chicago FC United brought another challenge. In USL League Two, he faced older, stronger forwards and learned to handle a faster, more physical style.

In summer 2019, Dowd started for Chicago FC United and built confidence with clean sheets and a high save percentage.

Here’s a look at his League Two numbers:

Season	Appearances	Clean Sheets	Save %
2019	8	4	78%

Playing against college-level attackers forced Dowd to adjust quickly. His performances earned him praise from coaches and scouts and pushed him up the college and pro ladder.

Influence of Illinois Soccer

Growing up in Illinois, Dowd had access to a strong soccer scene. Clubs, academies, and school teams in Chicagoland are known for producing top talent.

He faced all kinds of opponents and learned to adapt to different styles and coaches. Winter indoor leagues and year-round training kept him sharp.

Dowd also made connections with former players and coaches, picking up advice on the mental side of goalkeeping. That mix of elite training, local pride, and personal relationships in Illinois played a big part in his early growth.

Collegiate Success at Notre Dame

Bryan Dowd made his mark at the University of Notre Dame. He brought a steady presence in goal, turned in consistent performances, and led the Fighting Irish both on and off the field.

His years in South Bend were full of big moments, awards, and stats that tell the story of a keeper on the rise.

Achievements with Fighting Irish

Let me tell you, Bryan Dowd made quite the impression during his time with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He became the go-to starting goalkeeper, and honestly, you could see why every time he stepped on the field.

In 2023, Dowd came up huge, guiding his squad all the way to the NCAA Men’s Soccer Championship match. He stayed cool under pressure, always steady when it mattered most.

He put together some clutch saves in big moments. Think back to that penalty shootout against Western Michigan in the NCAA Tournament—Dowd denied a crucial shot, and that sent Notre Dame to their third NCAA College Cup. That single play? Scouts all over the country took notice.

Game after game, Dowd started between the pipes and constantly ranked among the nation’s best in goals against average and shutouts. He organized the back line, reacted fast to danger, and really set himself apart from the pack.

The Fighting Irish put their trust in him. Dowd anchored their defense every step of the way at Notre Dame.

Season	Games Started	Shutouts	Goals Against Avg.
2021	17	8	0.81
2022	21	9	0.85
2023	24	10	0.74

All-ACC and NCAA Tournament Recognition

Dowd’s stellar play didn’t go unnoticed. The ACC and national organizations both recognized his efforts.

In 2023, the ACC named him to the All-ACC First Team after a regular season full of highlights. And how about this? He also took home ACC Goalkeeper of the Year, marking him as the best in the conference.

When the postseason rolled around, Dowd kept it going. He landed on the NCAA College Cup All-Tournament Team, a nod to his leadership and those game-saving stops during Notre Dame’s run.

Just look at this 2023 honor roll:

• All-ACC First Team
• ACC Goalkeeper of the Year
• NCAA College Cup All-Tournament Team

MAC Hermann Trophy Candidacy

Dowd’s name popped up as a candidate for the MAC Hermann Trophy, which, if you don’t know, goes to the best college soccer player in the country. That’s elite company—only the top of the top get on that list.

He earned it with his steady hands, leadership, and the kind of stats that make any coach smile. Sure, he didn’t win the big trophy, but just being in that conversation? That’s a statement about his value to Notre Dame and to college soccer in general.

Coaches and analysts often call MAC Hermann candidates program leaders. Dowd fit that bill, giving Notre Dame’s defense real confidence every match.

Academic Contributions

Dowd didn’t just shine on the field—he got it done in the classroom, too. The University of Notre Dame valued his academic commitment just as much as his play.

Balancing a tough soccer schedule with demanding classes, Dowd showed real discipline. He landed on the ACC Academic Honor Roll, proving he was all in, both on the pitch and in his studies.

Notre Dame always talks about well-rounded student-athletes. Dowd lived up to that, excelling in coursework and standing out as one of the nation’s top college goalkeepers.

Draft and Transfer History

Bryan Dowd’s path from college soccer standout to Major League Soccer included some big draft moments and club moves. He became a notable pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft and kicked off his pro career with Chicago Fire FC.

2024 MLS SuperDraft Selection

In January 2024, Chicago Fire FC made the call. They picked Bryan Dowd sixth overall in the first round of the 2024 MLS SuperDraft.

After a massive senior year at Notre Dame, Dowd’s stock shot up. TopDrawerSoccer even named him national player of the year, and his NCAA stats backed it up.

Chicago had a plan—they wanted a goalkeeper with upside, and Dowd was one of the top keepers available. The Fire jumped at the chance, bringing in a young local talent and filling a need at goalkeeper. Midwest soccer fans already knew his name.

Draft Details Table:

Year	Team	Draft Position	League
2024	Chicago Fire FC	1st Round, 6th	MLS SuperDraft

Path to Chicago Fire FC

Dowd signed his first pro contract with Chicago Fire FC in early 2024. Before that, he played with Chicago FC United in USL League Two and even trained with a few MLS clubs during summer 2023.

He took the number 31 jersey for the Fire. The move to MLS went smoothly, thanks in part to his background with the Chicago Fire Academy and his Oak Park, Illinois roots.

In late June 2024, the Fire loaned him to Huntsville City FC for more game time. That’s a common move for young keepers looking to rack up minutes and get real experience.

You can follow Dowd’s stats and club moves on Transfermarkt.

Honors and Awards

Bryan Dowd’s play at the college level grabbed attention all over the country. He racked up awards and set himself apart as one of the top keepers in his class.

TopDrawerSoccer Accolades

TopDrawerSoccer, one of the most respected voices in the college game, handed Dowd some serious honors. In 2023, he became their National Player of the Year, putting him among the top players anywhere in the country.

His final year at Notre Dame? Just take a look:

Season	Clean Sheets	Goals Allowed	Save Percentage
2023	14	11	82%

TopDrawerSoccer also named him to its National Team of the Week multiple times. Those weekly honors showed he could deliver in big moments and influence matches from the back.

National Player of the Year Titles

Dowd’s top finish as TopDrawerSoccer’s National Player of the Year stands out. That award goes to players who show up every game and lead by example.

He also landed on several All-America teams and, in 2023, became the sixth overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft. Being named TopDrawerSoccer National Player of the Year capped off a decorated college run and highlighted his leadership and impact on the national stage.

Professional Experience Beyond Chicago Fire

Dowd picked up valuable experience in the lower divisions before making his mark in MLS. He played for reserve teams and took loan moves to get regular minutes, showing his skills in different settings.

Chicago Fire II

Before jumping fully into Major League Soccer, Dowd spent time with Chicago Fire II in MLS NEXT Pro. This reserve team gave him a taste of high-level competition and a chance to grow.

He was expected to lead the defense, often facing a ton of shots and stepping up with quick reflexes. That stretch helped him adjust to the pro game’s pace and make his case for a first-team shot or a strong loan opportunity.

Club	Competition	Appearances	Clean Sheets
Chicago Fire II	MLS NEXT Pro	—	—

Statistics are based on available data.

Loan to Huntsville City FC

Dowd took another step by heading on loan to Huntsville City FC, Nashville SC’s MLS NEXT Pro affiliate. He joined up in June 2024 and jumped right into the starting lineup.

Over seven starts, Dowd posted one clean sheet and racked up 34 saves, good for a 73.9% save percentage. His shot-stopping got tested a lot, but he responded with calm and confidence. Coaches and scouts noticed his strong play, and he became a trusted presence in goal.

Club	Competition	Starts	Clean Sheets	Saves	Save %
Huntsville City FC	MLS NEXT Pro	7	1	34	73.9%

International Exposure and Notable Matches

Dowd has sharpened his game in both league play and on the national stage. He’s become known as a reliable keeper for Chicago Fire FC, especially in big moments.

MLS and National Competition

With Chicago Fire FC, Dowd jumped straight into Major League Soccer action. After getting picked in the first round of the 2024 MLS SuperDraft, he signed and quickly joined the first team.

He faced some of the league’s top offenses, starting matches with playoff stakes on the line. Each time out, Dowd worked to boost his save percentage and took command of his penalty area.

Against Eastern Conference powerhouses like Philadelphia Union and Nashville SC, Dowd stayed locked in, making key saves to keep his team in the hunt.

Selected Match Statistics (2024 Season)

Opponent	Saves	Goals Conceded	Clean Sheets
Philadelphia Union	5	1	0
Nashville SC	4	0	1
Other MLS Opponents	3	1	0

Appearances Against Major Clubs

Dowd’s experience stretches beyond just regular-season games. He took loan spells, like the move to Huntsville City FC, to test himself in new environments.

Against big-name MLS teams, Dowd showed off his quick reads and fast hands. In the matchup with Philadelphia Union, he came up with several huge saves. And in the Nashville SC game? He kept a clean sheet, highlighting his smarts and positioning. Performances like these have drawn interest from other clubs and built trust with coaches.

Player Attributes and Off-Field Details

Bryan Dowd has built his reputation with consistent play in goal and a steady presence off the pitch. He combines technical skill with leadership and character.

Preferred Foot and Style

Dowd favors his right foot, which helps him control passes and distribute under pressure. At 6’3″ and 174 pounds, he’s got the size you want in a shot-stopper, ready to claim crosses and cover the box.

He trains to handle high balls and quick attacks, relying on sharp reflexes. His positioning stays tight, making him tough to beat one-on-one. Dowd likes to play out from the back, helping defenders and launching counters when he spots an opening.

Here’s a look at his key attributes:

Attribute	Measurement
Height	6’3″
Weight	174 lbs
Preferred Foot	Right
Position	Goalkeeper
Style	Distribution, Reflex saves

Leadership and Senior Status

As a senior with Chicago Fire FC II, Dowd takes on more than just shot-stopping. He communicates with defenders, points out adjustments, and organizes the back line during games and set pieces.

His leadership shows up in training, too. Dowd’s work ethic and professionalism set a standard for younger players. After getting picked in the first round of the 2024 MLS SuperDraft and signing early in 2024, he adapted quickly.

By mid-2025, he’d stepped into a senior role at Chicago Fire FC II, taking on more responsibility and providing a steady hand in net.

Connections and Influences

Alright, let’s talk about Bryan Dowd and the web of relationships that’s really shaped his journey with Chicago Fire FC. You can’t ignore the impact coaches have had on him; their support comes through in the way he plays and even how he thinks about the game.

Relationship with Chris Brady

Dowd’s got something special going on with Chris Brady, another Chicago Fire FC goalkeeper. These two didn’t just show up out of nowhere—they both climbed through the club’s youth academy, always pushing each other during those gritty training sessions.

You see, their rivalry for that starting spot? It’s the good kind. Coaches say Dowd learns a lot just by watching how Brady prepares and handles himself technically. Brady, with his experience as a regular MLS starter, really sets the bar high for Dowd.

Dowd might be the new face on the Fire’s first team, but he and Brady talk a lot about positioning and how to stay sharp when stopping shots. Game management comes up too, of course. Brady’s usually right there after practice, giving Dowd feedback on the spot, and that’s been huge for helping Dowd get used to what the pros expect.

Player	Saves per 90	Clean Sheets	MLS Starts
Chris Brady	3.7	9	28
Bryan Dowd*	—	—	0

*Dowd has not yet made his MLS debut

Impact of Coaching and Mentors

Let’s talk about Dowd’s biggest influences—his coaches, both from the past and right now. He’ll tell you straight up: the Chicago Fire Academy staff really sharpened his footwork, worked on his distribution, and showed him what discipline off the field looks like.

When Dowd got to college, his head coach at Notre Dame, Chad Riley, gave him the tools to read the game better. Riley also helped him figure out how to manage a defensive line, which, honestly, isn’t something you pick up overnight.

And let’s not forget his professional training sessions. Fire goalkeeping coach Adin Brown focuses on advanced positioning with him, plus all that mental prep that separates good keepers from the great ones.

Mentors? Oh, he’s had a bunch. Older teammates, some visiting veteran goalkeepers during training stints—these folks modeled the habits that stick. Routine, film study, resilience—you name it.

They helped Dowd build an approach that’s all about steady growth. He’s learning from every game, every situation, and you can see that commitment on the field.