D. Dodson D.C. United Defender #18 Season Performance and Key Stats

If you’re looking for a guy to steady D.C. United’s backline, Derek Dodson, wearing number 18, is a name you’ll want to remember. At just 26, Dodson’s already showing up as a reliable option, flexing his strength both as a right-back and as a wing-back. From his days as a Georgetown standout to his current MLS run, you can just see his steady growth and commitment to defense.

Dodson came to D.C. United after getting picked in the 2024 MLS Re-Entry Draft, signing on for a year with an option for 2026. The club sees his skill and versatility as a way to shore up a defense that’s had a rough go lately. He’s got speed, stamina, and sharp decision-making—honestly, he’s one to keep your eyes on as the season gets rolling.

Want to know more about Dodson’s profile, stats, and what he could mean for United? Stick around—there’s plenty to like about what he brings to the pitch.

D. Dodson’s Role as D.C. United Defender #18

Derek Dodson heads into the 2025 season as a key piece of D.C. United’s back line. He brings both experience and a whole lot of flexibility.

As defender #18, he makes a difference with his defensive skills, sharp game sense, and his knack for sliding into different spots across the back.

Playing Style and Versatility

People around the league notice Dodson for his adaptability. You’ll catch him playing as a classic right-back, but he doesn’t blink if he needs to push up as a wing-back when the formation shifts.

He brings disciplined positioning, jumps on tackles, and reads passing lanes well. It’s not just defense, either.

Dodson’s time as a college forward still shows—he’s got solid passing vision and technical skills under pressure. That lets him push forward, overlap with wingers, and jump into the attack when needed.

He doesn’t shy away from one-on-one duels and hustles back hard in transition. That’s a trait that coaches love.

This versatility gives D.C. United’s coaches options. They can rotate systems or fill gaps without losing quality in the back line.

Squad Role in the 2025 Season

Heading into 2025, Dodson grabs a valuable spot for the Black-and-Red after coming in from the 2024 MLS Re-Entry Draft. He’s fighting for a regular starting role, bringing tactical awareness and work ethic that you just can’t teach.

D.C. United needs to lock things down defensively, and Dodson’s going to draw some tough matchups against the league’s best attackers. He’s the kind of guy who keeps the back four talking and organized.

His communication stands out, and he’s always ready to fill whatever role the team needs, whether it’s in practice or on game day.

Dodson wears #18, and his experience in both USL and MLS means younger players can look to him for how to handle the job. His reliability already earned him trust and playing time in preseason.

Notable Performances with D.C. United

Dodson’s debut with D.C. United turned heads—he put in solid defensive work and made some sharp overlapping runs on the right. In big games, his interception rate and fitness really stood out, especially when things got tense late.

Check out some of his recent stats:

Game	Minutes Played	Clearances	Interceptions	Tackles Won	Assists
vs. NYCFC	90	5	3	2	0
vs. Atlanta	87	3	2	1	1
vs. Orlando	93	4	4	3	0

You see Dodson step up in clutch moments, helping D.C. United keep games close and snag points when it matters. His influence shows up in both defensive numbers and the way he helps build play from the back.

Want more? Check out his D.C. United player page or his Transfermarkt profile.

Path to D.C. United: Transfers and Draft History

Derek Dodson’s road to D.C. United comes after a string of draft picks, contracts, and transfers that shaped his pro journey. He’s made stops at Minnesota United, Orlando City, and played in both MLS and USL Championship.

Selection in the 2024 MLS Re-Entry Draft

Dodson landed at D.C. United when they picked him in Stage 2 of the 2024 MLS Re-Entry Draft. That’s the draft where teams grab experienced MLS players who aren’t under contract.

For Dodson, it meant a fresh shot in D.C. after his time with Minnesota United. D.C. United wanted more depth at the back, and they saw Dodson as someone who could step in right away.

They quickly came to terms after the draft. That pick fit the team’s focus—they needed reliable defenders, and they weren’t shy about saying it. You can read more about the move on mlssoccer.com and dcunited.com.

Contract Details and Club Options

After the draft, Dodson signed a one-year deal through 2025, with a club option for 2026. This gives D.C. United some control and flexibility if he impresses.

The contract’s pretty standard for Re-Entry Draft guys—short-term, low-risk, but with a chance for more if things go well. If Dodson delivers, he could stick around and play an even bigger part down the line.

Teams like these shorter deals when a player’s moving within the league but still needs to show what he can do in a new spot.

Previous Signing with Minnesota United

Before D.C. United, Dodson spent time with Minnesota United FC. They brought him in for defensive depth, but he didn’t get a ton of minutes.

Still, the environment in Minnesota helped him learn under a different coaching staff. That time gave him a better feel for the grind of top-level American soccer.

Even without a ton of game time, Minnesota United helped Dodson take the next step. You could call it a key stop—he got pushed, learned, and prepped for his next shot.

Experience in MLS and USL Championship

Dodson’s career stretches beyond just one club or league. Orlando City SC drafted him in 2021, but he didn’t get many minutes there. He went on loan to the USL Championship, where he made a real impact.

He got steady playing time and turned heads with his defensive play and versatility. Those USL stints helped him build a reputation as a dependable option.

Dodson’s time in different leagues gave him a taste of different styles and competition levels. That’s been huge for rounding out his skill set.

Derek Dodson Career Snapshot

Year	Club	League	Appearances	Goals
2021	Orlando City SC	MLS	Few	0
2021	Hartford Athletic	USL Championship	Regular	3
2023	Minnesota United FC	MLS	Limited	0
2025	D.C. United	MLS	Pending	–

Those moves between MLS and USL shaped Dodson into the defender you see now at D.C. United, ready to help out wherever he’s needed.

Professional Career Before D.C. United

Before landing in D.C., Dodson spent a few seasons building his reputation with teams in the USL Championship and MLS NEXT Pro. He bounced between positions, chipped in on both ends, and got valuable experience in high-pressure environments.

Loan Spells and Team Contributions

Dodson’s early pro journey included loan spells that really showed his adaptability and drive. Orlando City SC drafted him, but he quickly went on loan to Hartford Athletic in the USL Championship.

At Hartford, Dodson started almost every match he was available for, switching between defense and attack. He put up over 25 appearances and chipped in key goals and assists.

His athleticism gave Hartford a spark during their playoff push. Dodson’s two-way play and willingness to fill any role helped him stand out.

Achievements with Charleston Battery

Dodson’s time with the Charleston Battery gave fans a closer look at his ability to shine in a competitive setting. He played as a regular starter, locking down the defense and handling pressure like a pro.

Charleston leaned on his speed and tactical awareness in big games. Dodson made over 20 appearances, helping the team keep goals against to a minimum.

His steady work drew praise from coaches and teammates. That kind of consistency is hard to find.

Charleston Battery Stats (Key Seasons)

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2021	23	2	3

Dodson’s time there sharpened his decision-making and set him up for bigger roles later.

Impact on Hartford Athletic and Memphis 901

Dodson kept developing with Hartford Athletic and Memphis 901. He played a big role for Hartford, and with Memphis 901 FC, he showed off his flexibility and stamina.

Memphis used Dodson mostly as a fullback, sometimes even in midfield. He worked hard, pressed opponents, and helped make the defense tougher.

You could see him pushing forward to support the attack, making key clearances and interceptions.

Versatility really defines Dodson’s contributions in these stops. He filled in when injuries hit, helped with transitions, and never backed down from physical play.

These experiences rounded out his game and got him ready for bigger stages.

MLS NEXT Pro with Minnesota United FC 2

Dodson’s stint with Minnesota United FC 2 in MLS NEXT Pro showed his hunger to keep improving. In this development league, he took on leadership and faced off against younger talents.

He played nearly every match he could, bringing defensive discipline and even chipped in on offense.

Dodson helped organize the back line and kept things tight against top young players.

Minnesota United FC 2 2023 Stats

Stat	Total
Appearances	22
Goals	2
Assists	1

His time in MLS NEXT Pro proved he could keep his standards high while mentoring teammates and juggling different roles. That work got him noticed and opened the door to D.C. United.

Collegiate Career at Georgetown University

Derek Dodson made a real impact for Georgetown University, both on and off the field. He helped the Hoyas win a national championship, led as team captain, and picked up several Big East honors.

NCAA Championship Success

Let’s talk about Derek Dodson’s college days—he burst onto the scene as a forward and played a huge part in Georgetown’s first-ever NCAA Men’s Soccer Championship. The 2019 campaign? Dodson stepped up at every stage, never shying away from the spotlight.

He scored 32 goals in 72 games for Georgetown. One of those? A clutch goal in the national championship match. That’s the stuff legends are made of, folks.

Dodson’s movement and finishing in front of goal gave the Hoyas a real edge. He helped them knock off some of the country’s best soccer programs.

He had a knack for showing up when it mattered most. That attitude powered Georgetown’s historic run.

Key 2019 Season Stats

Category	Value
Appearances	24
Goals	11
Assists	5
Game-Winning Goals	4

The championship season put Dodson on the national radar. People started calling him one of the top collegiate forwards in the country.

His energy, work rate, and skill laid the groundwork for Georgetown’s success at the highest level of NCAA soccer.

Leadership and Captaincy

Dodson didn’t just play—he led. Georgetown handed him the captain’s armband for two seasons, and he guided a mix of young talent and seasoned vets.

He kept his communication direct and positive, always bridging the gap between coaches and teammates. You could see the difference he made, both in training and on the pitch.

When the team faced tough moments—trailing late or protecting a slim lead—teammates looked to Dodson. He didn’t just lead on the field, either.

Dodson got involved with campus community events and team-building off the field. Georgetown set records for wins during his captaincy, staying a powerhouse in the Big East.

Big East Honors and Records

The Big East noticed Dodson’s talent right away. As a freshman in 2017, he snagged Big East Freshman of the Year honors. That’s no small feat.

Every year, he landed on the All-Big East Team, sometimes first team, sometimes second. Talk about consistency.

Dodson finished up as one of Georgetown’s top all-time scorers. He ranked among the leaders in goals, game-winners, and total points.

He picked up Big East Offensive Player of the Week multiple times, leaving a mark in conference play. The conference and his peers recognized him as one of the most decorated Hoyas in recent memory.

Want more on Dodson’s NCAA journey? Check out D.C. United’s official announcement on his signing and collegiate background.

Player Profile and Personal Background

Derek Dodson now lines up as a defender for D.C. United, wearing number 18. His path from Illinois to Major League Soccer tells a story of grit and growth.

Early Life and Hometown

Dodson’s story starts in Aurora, Illinois. Born November 3, 1998, he grew up surrounded by diversity and a strong sports culture.

He got hooked on soccer early thanks to local clubs and a supportive family. He played for his high school team and quickly made waves.

His discipline and athleticism set him apart. When he headed to Georgetown, his reputation only grew.

Those years in Illinois? They built his competitive spirit and work ethic—qualities that helped him adjust to the pros.

Physical Attributes and Playing Statistics

As a wing-back for D.C. United, Dodson’s physical tools stand out. He’s 5’11” (1.80 m), which gives him a solid presence at both ends of the field.

At around 165 lbs (75 kg), he brings a nice mix of strength and speed.

Here’s a quick look at his professional stats as of the latest season:

Attribute	Value
Club	D.C. United
Position	Defender
Jersey Number	18
Height	5’11” (1.80 m)
Weight	165 lbs (75 kg)
Birthdate	Nov 3, 1998
Hometown	Aurora, IL

Dodson plays with reliability and sharp tactical sense. His experience in both MLS and USL shows he can handle different defensive roles.

You can dig into his current profile at D.C. United or browse his stats on Transfermarkt.

Noteworthy Quotes and Management Insights

Derek Dodson steps onto the pitch for D.C. United at a big moment—both for his career and the club’s future. Leadership at the club, including the technical director, have weighed in on what Dodson brings and what they expect for the 2025 MLS season.

Ally Mackay’s Perspective

Ally Mackay, D.C. United’s General Manager, has voiced real confidence in Dodson’s ability to fill defensive gaps. Mackay pointed to Dodson’s “consistency and work rate,” saying those traits fit perfectly with the club’s ambitions for 2025.

In a recent club announcement, Mackay said, “Derek brings both experience and hunger to the back line, and we value his versatility.” That matches up with the team’s focus on building reliable defenders who can handle big moments.

Fans can see the value in Dodson’s track record with other MLS teams. The front office clearly expects him to bring professionalism and discipline every time he steps on the field.

Expectations for the 2025 MLS Season

Alright, folks, the 2025 MLS season is right around the corner, and let me tell you, the buzz is real. D.C. United handed Dodson a one-year deal with a 2026 option, so there’s plenty riding on this for both sides according to the club.

You’ll spot Dodson in the #18 jersey, and he’s got one job: lock down that back line. The coaching staff wants to see him win tackles, dominate in the air, and move the ball out of defense with confidence.

Key performance indicators for Dodson:

Statistic	2024 Season
Appearances	27
Tackles Won	41
Interceptions	35
Clearances	88

Fans and management are keeping a close eye on his defensive stats. His leadership and steady play will get plenty of attention as D.C. United chases more wins in the Eastern Conference.

Can Dodson answer the call? We’ll see soon enough.