CJ FODREY Austin FC Forward Breaking Through in the 2025 MLS Season

CJ Fodrey is a promising forward for Austin FC, and he’s quickly making a name for himself in Major League Soccer. Austin FC picked him in the first round of the 2023 MLS SuperDraft, and honestly, Fodrey’s journey from youth soccer in California to a key pro role is turning heads all around the league.

Fans and analysts are buzzing about his speed and skill set. There’s a lot of hope that he’ll give Austin FC’s attack a real boost.

He’s just 21, but Fodrey’s got the size and technical ability to play both as a winger and a forward. Austin FC doubled down on him, giving him a contract extension through 2027, with options for more years.

If you’re thinking about the team’s long-term plans, Fodrey’s right at the center of it. Every time he steps on the field, he attracts more interest.

Take a look at his early professional stats with Austin FC:

Season	Club	League	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023	Austin FC	MLS	12	2	1

Profile of CJ Fodrey

CJ Fodrey plays forward for Austin FC. He’s made a mark with his physical presence and technical skills, and people are noticing both his youth development and his pro impact in Major League Soccer.

Early Life and Background

Calvin Jay Fodrey, better known as CJ, was born on February 10, 2004, in Coronado, California. Growing up near San Diego, he found his passion for soccer early.

He stands 6 feet 2 inches, which gives him a natural edge on the pitch.

Fodrey’s family really fueled his love for the game. They backed him up during training and matches, and that support helped him build confidence and discipline.

By his teens, he was already making waves in local competitions.

His California upbringing let him play with some talented youth athletes. That really set the stage for his club soccer journey.

Youth Development and Soccer Journey

Fodrey started his club career at Albion SC, then moved to San Diego Surf—two top youth clubs in Southern California. Those clubs have a reputation for developing pros, and Fodrey fit right in.

He showed off as a winger and forward with those teams, and coaches raved about his speed, strength, and game sense. That gave him an edge against opponents.

He kept developing at San Diego State University, playing college soccer for the Aztecs. During his time there, Fodrey caught the eye of MLS scouts with his tenacity and strong performances.

His technical skills and physical gifts helped him stand out in the NCAA.

Transfer to Austin FC

Austin FC took CJ Fodrey with the 13th pick in the first round of the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. The club saw him as a dynamic forward who could add a spark to their attack.

He became part of their future plans right away.

After joining Austin FC, Fodrey signed a contract extension that keeps him with the club through at least 2027, with options for 2028 and beyond.

He’s played for both the first team and Austin FC II, giving him time to adjust to the pace of MLS.

CJ Fodrey – Austin FC Key Stats Table

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists	Club
2023	—	—	—	Austin FC
2024	—	—	—	Austin FC II

Fodrey keeps working on his game at Austin FC. He’s aiming to lock down a reliable forward role for the club’s future.

Want more on his contract and stats? Check out his Austin FC profile and details on Transfermarkt.

CJ Fodrey’s Role as Forward

CJ Fodrey brings a direct, athletic style to Austin FC’s attack. He’s built a reputation for scoring key goals and supporting the forward line with flexibility and discipline.

Playing Style and Strengths

Fodrey plays forward, using his speed and physicality to make defenders uncomfortable. At 6’1”, he’s tough to handle in duels, whether he’s shielding the ball or fighting for position.

He’s comfortable as a wide forward or through the middle, which gives Austin FC options in attack.

He loves quick transitions and aggressive runs behind the defense. Off the ball, he’s always working—tracking back to help out defensively.

His game sense lets him pick the right moments to press, create space, and support the build-up.

Key Skills: Shot, Header, and Cross

Fodrey’s shot packs power and accuracy. That was huge during Austin FC II’s MLS NEXT Pro title run, where he scored four goals.

He can finish with either foot, so he’s dangerous from different angles in the box.

His heading ability is a real weapon. With his leap and timing, Fodrey becomes a target on set pieces and crosses.

He doesn’t go for flashy skills, but his crossing is effective, especially when he’s out wide. Fodrey delivers strong passes into the box for teammates, giving Austin FC a few different looks in attack.

Skill	Description	Impact
Shot	Powerful, two-footed	Scores from inside the box
Header	Strong leap, accurate	Threat on set pieces/crosses
Cross	Direct, firm delivery	Creates goal chances for others

Positioning and Movement

Fodrey’s positioning is sharp. He keeps defenders guessing with his runs and times his movements to stay onside.

He finds gaps between center backs and full-backs. On attack, he drifts into space for chances or pulls defenders away to make room for teammates.

His awareness helps him adjust quickly in crowded penalty areas. He’s disciplined about tracking back, winning the ball, and setting up counterattacks.

That mix of smart movement and defensive effort fits Austin FC’s system and helps the team stay balanced.

For more on his career and what he brings to Austin FC, visit CJ Fodrey’s official profile.

Austin FC Team Overview

Austin FC stands out in the Western Conference with its focus on young talent, steady leadership, and a home crowd that brings the energy. The team puts a big emphasis on player development, experienced coaching, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere at Q2 Stadium.

Squad Composition and Key Players

Austin FC’s roster mixes rising stars with seasoned pros. The midfield gets its spark from young players like Owen Wolff, while the defense leans on experienced guys like Zan Kolmanic.

In attack, CJ Fodrey brings pace and upside as a forward, joining other core players who like to push the tempo.

Goalkeeper Brad Stuver anchors things in net, often leading the club in saves and clean sheets. Jon Gallagher, a versatile wingback, adds both defensive stability and attacking support with crosses and timely goals.

This balanced lineup lets Austin FC compete throughout the long MLS season.

Player	Position	Notable Skills
Brad Stuver	Goalkeeper	Shot-stopping, Command
Jon Gallagher	Wingback	Pace, Versatility
Zan Kolmanic	Defender	Positioning, Crossing
Owen Wolff	Midfielder	Energy, Passing
CJ Fodrey	Forward	Speed, Finishing

Management and Coaching Staff

Head coach Nico Estévez leads the club and is known for his tactical discipline and focus on player growth. Estévez pushes a possession-based style, encouraging Austin FC to play out from the back and keep control with the ball.

He’s big on developing younger players and adapting during matches.

Behind the scenes, the technical staff handles scouting and development. This shared philosophy between management and coaching keeps Austin FC steady in the Western Conference.

By keeping expectations clear and communication open, the club builds real cohesion from training to match day.

Q2 Stadium and Home Advantage

Q2 Stadium, right in North Austin, is famous for its electric atmosphere. Fans pack the place, and the unique design puts them close to the action.

That crowd noise? It’s something else. Players feed off it, especially when the supporters’ section gets going.

Austin FC tends to play better at Q2. The stands are a sea of Verde & Black, and the stadium has become a tough place for opponents to grab points.

Every home game at Q2 feels like a highlight, both for the team and the fans.

CJ Fodrey’s Impact on Austin FC

CJ Fodrey stands out as a young forward, bringing energy and skill to Austin FC’s attack. He influences games with his knack for finding the net, stepping up in big moments, and playing a key part in those heated regional rivalries.

Goals and Scoring Record

Fodrey has made his mark in front of goal, chipping in with solid contributions since joining the squad. His speed and positioning have led to several important finishes.

He’s not topping the league in goals yet, but his scoring record shows real growth for such a young player in MLS.

Check out his goal stats for Austin FC:

Season	MLS Goals	Copa Tejas Goals	Penalties	Blocked Shots	Shots Saved
2023	4	1	1	6	9
2024	6	2	2	8	15

Stats updated through June 2025.

Fodrey’s work rate leads to rebounds and deflections, keeping defenses on their toes. He’s also improved his penalty conversion rate, which has helped Austin FC close out tight games.

Significant Matches and Performances

Fodrey has come through in crucial moments for Austin FC. He scored the winner against LA Galaxy in April 2024, slipping into space and finishing with real calm.

That goal gave Austin a big boost early in the season.

He also played a major role in the 3-2 win over Sporting Kansas City. Fodrey scored one and set up another, showing he’s more than just a finisher.

Coaches have praised his pressing and his knack for creating chances from blocked or saved shots.

His cool head in high-pressure spots, especially on penalty kicks, adds a lot in tight games with playoff stakes.

Contribution in Copa Tejas

Copa Tejas is one of the fiercest regional battles in Texas. Fodrey’s performances in those games are hard to ignore.

In 2024, he scored twice against Houston Dynamo, both at crucial moments that helped Austin FC lift the trophy.

His direct style gives rival defenses headaches. He draws multiple defenders, opening space for teammates.

Fodrey has won penalties in Copa Tejas games with his quick feet, putting points on the board in a tight series.

Coaches count on him to step up in these physical matchups, and his knack for finding the goal really sets him apart.

Statistical Breakdown

CJ Fodrey’s season with Austin FC highlights his drive in attack, his sharp finishing, and the pace he brings out wide. His numbers show a player who’s finding more chances and growing in all the right ways.

Player Ratings and Performance Metrics

Player ratings across league platforms keep Fodrey in the upper tier among young MLS forwards. He usually lands between 6.8 and 7.2 per match, which speaks to his high energy and relentless pressing.

Fodrey’s stamina stands out, especially late in games. He leads Austin FC’s forward line in successful pressures per 90 minutes.

Coaches rarely substitute him due to fatigue, which says plenty about his physical prep.

Key 2025 Metrics Table

Statistic	Value
Avg. Match Rating	7.0
Minutes per Game	78
Pressures per 90	17
Games Started	22
Missed Games (Injury)	1

Goal Conversion and Set Piece Performance

Fodrey’s goal conversion rate sits at a pretty efficient 14%, which is better than the league average for young wingers. He’s scored 5 goals this season, mostly from open play, and he doesn’t waste many high-quality chances.

His set piece technique is still coming along. He hasn’t scored from a direct free kick yet, but his runs have set up two set-piece assists and sparked several corners that led to shots.

Opponents often put extra defenders on him during dead-ball situations because of his aerial threat.

Fodrey moves well off the ball in the box, finding space to help the team’s attack. He does need to work on shot selection during quick transitions, though.

Possession and Passing Analysis

Fodrey helps Austin FC build attacks from the left, keeping the ball under pressure and connecting short passes. His pass completion rate is 81%, with most touches in the attacking half.

He averages 27 passes per match and delivers 1.4 key passes that set up shots, making him one of the more creative wingers in his age group.

He’s quick to recover after a missed pass, often chasing down lost balls to win them back.

Fodrey doesn’t run the midfield, but his control lets Austin FC stretch defenses and launch counterattacks. For more stats, check Austin FC’s CJ Fodrey page.

Notable Matches and Opponents

CJ Fodrey has gone up against some tough Western Conference teams and dangerous forwards this season. His match record shows individual moments and the level of competition Austin FC has faced.

Against Houston Dynamo and Brandon Vázquez

Fodrey’s games against the Houston Dynamo really stand out, thanks to the rivalry and the quality of Houston’s defense. The Dynamo play a physical, high-pressure style, so Fodrey has to work in tight spaces and coordinate fast with the midfield.

When Brandon Vázquez lines up as the opposition striker, the focus shifts to a battle of attacking firepower. Vázquez’s finishing forces Austin—and Fodrey—to raise their game.

Fodrey sees fewer direct chances in these matches, as defenses focus on closing down the box.

Here’s a quick look at key stats from matches against Houston Dynamo and Brandon Vázquez:

Match	Minutes Played	Goals	Assists	Shots on Target
Houston Dynamo	61	0	1	2
vs. Brandon Vázquez	48	0	0	1

Rivalry Highlights in the Western Conference

The Western Conference brings some of the most heated rivalries in MLS. Fodrey’s performances in these games test his technical and mental skills.

Matchups against FC Dallas, LA Galaxy, and Seattle Sounders always bring intensity. These games often decide playoff spots and spotlight rising stars.

Fodrey adapts his style, shakes off defenders, and presses with discipline. He’s contributed to key buildups and found space in the final third.

Fans and reporters notice his work rate and versatility, even if the result doesn’t go Austin’s way. For more match details, check the Austin FC match log.

Teammates and Tactical Integration

CJ Fodrey’s play at Austin FC depends on his chemistry with teammates and how he fits the team’s style. His partnerships focus on quick transitions, sharp ball movement, and steady defensive work.

Collaboration with Dani Pereira and Owen Wolff

In midfield, Dani Pereira and Owen Wolff play crucial roles connecting defense to attack. Fodrey’s best moments often come from their quick touches and passing range.

He times his runs off their passes, breaking defensive lines.

Pereira’s vision puts Fodrey in advanced spots, while Wolff’s energy drives the ball forward. Together, they create space for Fodrey, letting him drift wide or cut inside.

Short passing combos between these three often spark Austin FC’s most dangerous attacks.

Here’s how their passing numbers stack up this season:

Player	Key Passes/90	Assists	Passing Accuracy (%)
Dani Pereira	2.1	4	85
Owen Wolff	1.7	3	84
CJ Fodrey	1.2	2	81

This chemistry really shows how Fodrey fits into Austin’s transition play.

Defensive and Offensive Partnerships

Defensively, Fodrey presses high with help from Jon Gallagher and Julio Cascante. Their teamwork disrupts the opponent’s build-up and creates turnovers in advanced areas.

Brad Stuver, calling the shots from goal, keeps the back line organized.

Gallagher’s overlapping runs give Fodrey options—he can stay wide or cut inside. Cascante’s quick coverage lets Fodrey focus on attacking transitions.

On offense, Fodrey benefits from the team’s width and quick switches. He trusts his defensive partners to cover, so he can push forward and still help recover.

That balance of attack and defense shapes his role at Austin FC.

Comparisons and Influences

You get a better sense of CJ Fodrey’s game when you compare him to other top wingers, both in MLS and abroad. He’s drawn comparisons to some impressive names, and tough matchups have shaped his style.

Similarity to Osman Bukari and Guilherme Biro

Fodrey often gets compared to Osman Bukari, who’s famous for his pace and direct wing play. Like Bukari, Fodrey uses speed to attack space and stretch defenses.

Both make aggressive runs behind defenders, which keeps back lines on their toes.

Guilherme Biro is another good comp—his technical skill and tricks in tight spaces mirror Fodrey’s strengths. Fodrey, at 188 cm, brings more size than most wingers, including Biro, who relies more on agility.

Both can switch between wide spots and cut inside to shoot.

Here’s how Fodrey, Bukari, and Biro compare in key areas:

Player	Height	Main Strengths	Goals (2024)	Preferred Foot
CJ Fodrey	188 cm	Speed, positioning	4	Right
Osman Bukari	170 cm	Pace, dribbling	6	Right
Guilherme Biro	175 cm	Technical skill, vision	3	Left

Facing Besard Sabovic and Oleksandr Svatok

When Fodrey matches up with midfielders like Besard Sabovic, he faces disciplined, tactical opponents. Sabovic’s ball distribution and pressing force Fodrey to improve his off-ball movement and receive passes under pressure.

Defenders such as Oleksandr Svatok test Fodrey’s aerial and physical abilities. Svatok’s experience and positioning make him tough to beat.

Fodrey’s size gives him an edge in the air, but Svatok’s anticipation challenges his timing. These matchups sharpen Fodrey’s decision-making and composure in the box.

MLS Peers and International Counterparts

In MLS, Fodrey plays a role similar to other young wide attackers. He’s expected to take on defenders, whip in crosses, and chip in with goals and assists.

His 188 cm frame stands out, especially in aerial duels.

Internationally, Fodrey’s blend of athleticism and technical skill lines up with some of Europe’s rising stars, though he’s still learning the tactical side.

He competes with a diverse group of MLS peers, and that pushes him to adapt fast. Coaches and scouts are watching his progress closely, hoping his speed, versatility, and work rate keep trending up.

For more on Fodrey’s status and bio, check the Austin FC roster and his career stats.

Media Coverage and Imagery

CJ Fodrey’s role with Austin FC has drawn plenty of attention from the press, photographers, and media outlets. His on-field action and off-field persona give newsrooms fresh stories and visuals.

Editorial Use and Reportage

Photographers use images of CJ Fodrey mostly for editorial coverage. You’ll find these photos in sports news articles, features, and match reports about Austin FC.

Shots often show Fodrey in warm-ups, game action, or post-match interviews. For example, photographers captured him warming up before the MLS game against Vancouver Whitecaps at Q2 Stadium on May 17, 2025.

These images help editors add visual punch to soccer coverage.

Captioning, date stamps, and detailed descriptions help keep these images accurate. Legal rules limit their use to non-commercial purposes.

You’ll see them in news, profiles, and sports coverage—not in ads or promos.

Image Details, Stock Images, Vectors, and Videos

Photographers and agencies set a high bar for image clarity and composition when they shoot Fodrey in Austin FC gear or during games. Editorial stock images show him in team colors, usually during warm-ups or match action, like in this Getty Images gallery.

Editorial images usually come as:

• File type: JPEG, sometimes RAW
• Resolution: High-def, good for print or web
• Metadata: Player’s name, date, event, and location

You won’t find many vector illustrations of Fodrey, but there’s plenty of video showing his on-field moves. These clips show up in video recaps and player analysis segments.

File Size and Dimensions for Media

Alright, let’s dig into the numbers. Most editorial media files featuring Fodrey? They’re built for both digital and print—no shortcuts here.

Standard press images usually hit somewhere between 2000 and 4000 pixels on the long side. Photographers tend to stick to 300 DPI to keep things crisp for print.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the usual image specs:

File Type	Minimum Dimension (pixels)	Typical File Size (MB)
JPEG	2000 x 3000	2–5
RAW	4000 x 6000	15–25
Video	1920 x 1080 (HD)	50+

When you get the sizing right, images stay sharp whether you’re cropping for a web thumbnail or blowing them up for a magazine spread.

That kind of flexibility? It lets sports outlets keep their visuals looking top-notch across every platform.