Seattle’s #25 J. Ragen Outsmarts Defenders — Turns Them Into Lost Tourists!
When you look at Seattle Sounders FC’s backline, one name just pops out: Jackson Ragen. The 26-year-old center back, wearing number 25, has become one of the most reliable defenders in Major League Soccer.
He doesn’t just lock down opposing attacks—he brings calm distribution from the back, making himself a cornerstone of the Sounders’ defensive identity.
Ragen grew up right in Seattle, spent years in the Sounders Academy, and sharpened his skills at the University of Michigan before signing with the First Team in 2022.
That path gave him local roots and high-level experience, shaping a defender who knows the demands of MLS but still feels that hometown connection.
He moved up steadily, starting with Tacoma Defiance before earning his spot in Seattle’s backline.
What really makes him stand out? He combines size, smart positioning, and accurate passing to impact every phase of the game.
You can see his influence not just in clean sheets, but in how he organizes the defense and starts possession.
With his recent contract extension through 2027, the Sounders clearly see him as a long-term leader at the heart of their defense. That makes his story pretty compelling.
Contents
Profile of Jackson Ragen
He’s a defender who developed in Seattle, refined his game at Michigan, and now starts for his hometown club.
His career shows steady growth, marked by durability and a playing style focused on positioning and ball control.
Personal Background
Jackson Cameron Ragen was born on September 24, 1998, in Seattle, Washington.
He grew up in the city where he now plays professionally, which just makes his rise with Seattle Sounders FC that much more meaningful.
Before turning pro, you might have caught him at the University of Michigan.
He picked up Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors in his senior season and even scored five goals, which is a lot for a center back.
Ragen also spent time in the Sounders Academy system, playing for the U-18s in 2016–2017.
That gave him early exposure to a professional environment.
Seattle signed him to the First Team in February 2022 after a strong year with Tacoma Defiance.
He quickly became a regular starter in Major League Soccer.
Physical Attributes
Ragen stands at 6 feet 6 inches (198 cm), making him one of the tallest defenders in MLS.
His height is a big reason why he wins so many aerial duels.
At 26, he combines that frame with decent mobility.
He’s not the fastest guy out there, but he uses his reach and timing to cut off passing lanes and win headers.
His physical presence makes him a set-piece target.
In 2024, he scored a career-high three goals, showing he’s dangerous in the opponent’s box too.
He’s also durable—he started 33 regular-season matches in 2024, the most on the team.
That’s a lot of minutes to trust to one player.
Position and Playing Style
Ragen plays as a center back, usually on the left side of a two-man pairing.
He’s calm on the ball, which lets Seattle build out from the back.
He’s not just a stopper.
His passing accuracy hit 91 percent in 2024, which is up there with the best for defenders in MLS.
That distribution is valuable for possession-based teams.
Defensively, he relies more on positioning and anticipation than speed.
He recorded 77 clearances, ranking in the league’s top ten.
Here’s a snapshot of his recent performance:
| Season | Matches Started | Goals | Assists | Passing Accuracy | Clearances |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 33 | 3 | 1 | 91% | 77 |
| 2023 | 32 | 0 | 0 | 89% | 65 |
His style fits a team that values defensive structure.
He rarely overcommits, usually choosing to read the game and stay composed under pressure.
For more on his career, check out his Seattle Sounders profile or his Wikipedia page.
Journey to Seattle Sounders FC
You see a player who grew up in Seattle, built his foundation in local clubs, refined his skills at Michigan, and then carved out a professional path that required patience and real persistence.
His rise reflects steady development, resilience, and a strong connection to his hometown.
Youth and Academy Development
Jackson Ragen grew up in Seattle and played his earliest soccer with Paul Rothrock, a teammate who later joined him on the Sounders.
He started out at local clubs like West Side United and Seattle United, learning from former Sounders players such as Jimmy McAlister and Jason Farrell.
He joined the Seattle Sounders Academy for his U-18 season.
There, he got higher-level coaching and competition.
Unlike some academy prospects who signed pro contracts right away, he chose a different route.
That decision gave him time to mature physically and mentally.
By delaying his pro debut, he gained experience in organized systems that emphasized structure and discipline.
For a defender, those years of learning positioning and aerial dominance made a difference.
College Career at Michigan
Ragen took the less direct route by committing to the University of Michigan, where he played four seasons of college soccer.
At Michigan, he became a reliable center back, starting most matches and earning recognition for his consistency.
His college career let him face different playing styles in the Big Ten, a conference known for physical play.
He developed his ability to read the game and organize a back line, skills that would prepare him for the pro level.
Here’s a quick look at his Michigan career:
| Season | Matches Played | Goals | Assists | Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 17 | 0 | 0 | Freshman Starter |
| 2018 | 19 | 1 | 2 | All-Big Ten Honorable Mention |
| 2019 | 20 | 2 | 0 | All-Big Ten Second Team |
| 2020 | 12 | 0 | 0 | Team Captain |
By the time he left Michigan, he had proven himself as both a leader and a defender who could anchor a back line.
Professional Debut and Early Career
Ragen entered the 2021 MLS SuperDraft, but took his first professional steps with Tacoma Defiance, the Sounders’ second team.
He adapted quickly, using his size and aerial strength to control the penalty area.
Seattle Sounders FC signed him after acquiring his rights from the Chicago Fire.
He debuted with the First Team in 2022 and gradually earned minutes, showing composure on the ball and smart defensive positioning.
By 2023, he had become a regular starter for Seattle, anchoring one of the league’s top defenses.
His performances led to a contract extension through 2027 with an option for 2028.
That’s a clear sign the club values him long-term.
He also got called up to the United States Men’s National Team in January 2023.
That recognition just confirmed what fans had already noticed: he took the long road but arrived ready to compete at the highest level.
Role at Seattle Sounders FC
You notice Jackson Ragen’s impact most in how he went from a local academy product to a regular starter, stabilizing the back line with size and consistency.
He does more than just defend—he adds value in possession, wins aerial duels, and sets a standard for younger players to follow.
First Team Integration
Ragen came through the Seattle Sounders Academy before heading to the University of Michigan, where he picked up Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors.
That background helped him transition smoothly into Major League Soccer.
After a short stint with Tacoma Defiance, he signed with the Sounders’ First Team in 2022.
His 6’6” frame immediately stood out, but his composure on the ball really earned him minutes.
In his first full season, he started 32 league matches and became a dependable option in central defense.
That trust from the coaching staff showed how quickly he adapted to MLS.
His journey from academy to starter felt more like a steady climb than a sudden breakout.
Key milestones in his integration:
- Drafted by Chicago Fire in 2021, rights later acquired by Seattle
- Signed with Tacoma Defiance in 2021, started all 16 matches
- Promoted to Sounders First Team in 2022
- Became a regular starter by 2023
Defensive Contributions
You can’t just measure a defender by clearances and tackles, but Ragen’s numbers back up his reputation.
He anchored a unit that tied for the fewest goals allowed in MLS during the 2023 season.
His ability to read the game and position himself well reduced the need for last-ditch defending.
He’s also become a threat on set pieces, scoring a career-high four goals in 2024 and adding an assist.
That balance of defensive reliability and offensive contribution makes him valuable in tight matches.
| Season | MLS Starts | Goals Allowed by Team | Goals Scored | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 14 | 46 | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | 32 | 32 | 0 | 4 |
| 2024 | 29 | 34 | 4 | 1 |
His aerial dominance stands out.
At 6’6”, he wins most duels, giving the Sounders an edge on both ends of the field.
Leadership and Influence
Even though he’s still in his mid-20s, Ragen’s influence inside the locker room keeps growing.
His steady play and local roots give him credibility with veterans and younger players alike.
Coaches have noticed how he sets the tone with his preparation and consistency.
He was recognized as a Defender of the Year finalist, which shows his peers and the league value his contributions.
That kind of acknowledgment boosts his profile as more than just a role player.
Ragen also received a call-up to the U.S. Men’s National Team in early 2024, reflecting his progress at the professional level.
For fans, that means watching a hometown player grow into a leader who represents Seattle on a bigger stage.
His contract extension through 2027, with an option for 2028, shows the club’s commitment.
The Sounders made it clear: he’s central to their defensive core for the future.
Performance Highlights and Achievements
You really see Jackson Ragen’s impact in how he anchors the Seattle Sounders FC back line. He brings a steady presence, shows off his aerial ability, and makes smart decisions—he’s become a reliable defender in Major League Soccer since leaving the University of Michigan.
Key Matches and Moments
Ragen steps up in matches where defensive stability matters most. In 2023, he grabbed a starting spot and immediately helped the Sounders keep clean sheets against Western Conference rivals.
He wins duels in the box and clears danger when things get tense.
One of his best games came in a heated rivalry with Portland. He shut down several counterattacks and picked up Man of the Match honors.
His calmness under pressure gave Seattle a chance to counter and grab a late goal.
In 2024, he scored a crucial equalizer against Minnesota United. That moment really highlighted his aerial threat on set pieces.
The goal salvaged a point and boosted his reputation as a two-way contributor.
Statistical Overview
Ragen’s stats show how much he values positioning and timing as a center back. He doesn’t chase flashy tackles but instead limits opponents with smart interceptions and clearances.
Here’s a quick look at his recent MLS numbers:
| Season | Matches Played | Starts | Goals | Assists | Clearances | Passing Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 28 | 26 | 1 | 0 | 125 | 86% |
| 2024 | 30 | 29 | 2 | 1 | 141 | 87% |
These numbers show how often he stays in the lineup and how dependable his passing is from the back.
His passing accuracy above 85% gives Seattle a steady option when building out of defense.
Honors and Awards
Ragen hasn’t picked up league-wide individual awards yet, but people inside the club definitely notice his contributions.
Teammates and coaches value his consistency, and he’s become a regular in Seattle’s starting eleven.
He helped the Sounders reach the MLS Cup Playoffs, where defensive toughness can make all the difference.
His steady growth since joining the first team really shows his development—and the trust Seattle puts in him.
On the international stage, he hasn’t made his senior debut for the United States, but his MLS performances keep him in the mix for future call-ups.
For someone who came through college soccer at Michigan, that kind of rise says a lot.
Contract and Financial Details
Jackson Ragen’s deal with Seattle Sounders FC shows both his growth as a defender and the club’s commitment to keeping a homegrown player.
His earnings have jumped since his rookie season, and the contract structure gives both sides some flexibility.
Current Contract Terms
Ragen signed a new three-year contract with Seattle Sounders FC in 2024. His deal runs through the 2027 MLS season, and the club holds an option for 2028.
He earned this agreement after locking down a first-choice center back spot.
The contract rewards his consistency since joining the first team in 2022, after his college days at Michigan.
It gives Ragen some stability and lets Seattle plan ahead at a key defensive position.
At 26, he’s in his prime, and the Sounders have secured him during a time when MLS clubs are spending more on reliable center backs.
His contract also fits with the team’s bigger plan to keep academy-developed talent.
Salary Progression
Ragen’s salary has climbed fast since his rookie year. In 2022, he made just $65,500.
By 2023, his pay rose to $85,444, and in 2024 he earned $98,261.
After his extension, his salary jumped by over 463 percent—now he’s making more than $600,000 a year, according to Sounder at Heart.
That kind of leap is rare, but his role as a starter on one of MLS’s best defenses made it happen.
Salary Breakdown
| Year | Age | Base Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 23 | $65,500 | Rookie contract |
| 2023 | 24 | $85,444 | Regular starter |
| 2024 | 25 | $98,261 | Pre-extension |
| 2025 | 26 | $600,000+ | New contract |
Club Options and Extensions
Seattle included a club option for the 2028 season, giving the Sounders some flexibility if Ragen keeps performing at a high level.
This setup is pretty common in MLS, where teams like to keep control over player rights.
For fans, this means Ragen could stay in Seattle through at least 2028 without hitting free agency.
The option year lets the Sounders keep him without negotiating a new deal if they want.
From the club’s side, this reduces risk. If injuries pop up or his form drops, they can decline the option.
If he keeps playing well, they keep him at a set cost and avoid bidding wars with other MLS teams or clubs abroad.
It’s a balance that works for both sides—stability for Ragen and roster flexibility for Seattle.
It also fits how MLS clubs manage their rosters under the league’s salary cap.
International Experience and Recognition
Jackson Ragen has built his reputation in Major League Soccer with Seattle, but his international résumé is still a bit thin.
His consistency at the club level has earned him some recognition, even if it hasn’t led to regular U.S. appearances yet.
National Team Call-Ups
You won’t see Ragen among the regulars for the U.S. Men’s National Team.
Even after a strong run for Seattle, including finishing third in 2024 MLS Defender of the Year voting, he hasn’t gotten a senior call-up.
That’s really about the depth at center back for the U.S.—veterans like Walker Zimmerman and young guys such as Chris Richards have taken most of the spots.
For now, Ragen sits just outside the group.
Still, people notice his performances. A defender who started every match he played in during 2024 and completed over 1,900 passes at a 91 percent rate? That’s the kind of profile that could get attention.
He also won Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in college at Michigan, so he’s shown he can compete at a high level.
That background, along with his MLS production, keeps him in the conversation for future opportunities.
International Competitions
Ragen hasn’t represented the United States in official tournaments, but he’s picked up international experience with Seattle. You probably noticed him starting matches in the Concacaf Champions League, especially during the club’s 2022 title run.
He played in the FIFA Club World Cup too, where Seattle went up against teams from around the world. Playing a full 90 minutes against top clubs gave him a real taste of different playing styles.
In 2024, he started five times in the Leagues Cup, scored once, and helped Seattle get through group play. That tournament, which matches MLS teams with Liga MX opponents, gave him another shot to prove himself beyond the usual league games.
International Club Stats
| Competition | Year | Matches | Goals | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concacaf Champions League | 2022 | 6 | 0 | Part of title-winning squad |
| FIFA Club World Cup | 2023 | 1 | 0 | Played full 90 minutes |
| Leagues Cup | 2024 | 5 | 1 | Regular starter, scored 1 goal |
Sure, these aren’t national team appearances, but they’ve definitely boosted his profile and shown how he deals with international competition through his club.
