Max Floriani, San Jose Earthquakes Defender #25: Career & Impact
When you watch Max Floriani line up at center back for the San Jose Earthquakes, you notice a player who brings size, calm, and discipline to the back line. At 6’2″ and 187 pounds, he uses his frame to win aerial duels and control space in the defensive third.
You get a defender who mixes physical presence with the steady growth of a young professional.
Floriani grew up in Gurnee, Illinois, and sharpened his game at Saint Louis University. He played Division I soccer there while studying Sports Business.
That background gave him both on-field experience against top competition and leadership skills that work well at the pro level. Balancing academics and athletics shaped how he approaches the game now.
Wearing number 25 for San Jose, Floriani joined the club in 2024 and continues to work into the rotation as a reliable option in defense. His current deal sits at a base salary of $80,622 and a cap hit of $83,122, according to Spotrac.
For a 22-year-old defender, the chance to earn minutes in Major League Soccer is both a challenge and an opportunity to prove he belongs as a long-term piece of the Earthquakes’ roster.
Contents
Player Profile and Background
You see a young defender who grew up in Illinois before moving into the college game and eventually Major League Soccer. His background, physical tools, and approach on the field give you a sense of how he fits with San Jose Earthquakes.
Early Life and Hometown
Max Floriani was born on February 6, 2003, in Gurnee, Illinois. Gurnee sits north of Chicago, better known for Six Flags and outlet malls than pro soccer prospects.
That makes his rise to MLS a bit unique. He played youth soccer in the Chicago area and eventually landed at Saint Louis University.
At SLU, he played Division I soccer while studying Sports Business, getting a mix of athletics and academics. His college years sharpened his defensive skills and gave him a taste of strong competition.
By 2024, Floriani signed with the San Jose Earthquakes, taking the next step in his career. His path shows a steady climb from Illinois to college soccer and then into MLS.
Physical Attributes
Floriani brings a frame that fits the demands of a center-back. At 6’2″ (188 cm) and 187 lbs (85 kg), he offers the size and strength you expect from a defender in MLS.
His build lets him contest aerial duels, hold his position in the box, and match up against physical forwards. You can see his athleticism, too, giving him the ability to cover ground when needed.
Key Measurements
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’2″ |
| Weight | 187 lbs |
| Position | Defender |
| Jersey Number | #25 |
| Footedness | Right-footed |
With these physical traits and just 22 years old, he still has room to grow into his frame and improve his conditioning for the grind of an MLS season.
Preferred Playing Style
You see Floriani operate best as a center-back, where positioning and decision-making matter more than flashy plays. He relies on timing, anticipation, and simple distribution to keep things organized.
He plays a straightforward, no-nonsense style. Instead of risky passes, he prefers safe outlets to midfielders. That helps his team keep possession and avoid turnovers in bad spots.
In duels, he uses his size to shield attackers and clear the ball. He doesn’t dive into reckless challenges. Instead, you notice patience and discipline in his play.
At San Jose, this style fits well with a system that values structure in the back line. His job is clear: win battles, keep shape, and move the ball to teammates who can create.
San Jose Earthquakes Career
You saw Max Floriani move from Saint Louis University to the professional stage with steady progress. He entered Major League Soccer through the 2025 draft, then quickly transitioned into the Earthquakes’ back line, where his role keeps growing.
2025 MLS SuperDraft Selection
The San Jose Earthquakes picked Floriani in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft, betting on a defender with size, composure, and experience from a strong college program. At Saint Louis University, he stood out as a reliable center back, using his 6’2” frame to win aerial duels and anchor the defense.
For fans, this pick showed the club wanted to add depth and youth to the back line. Floriani came into the league at age 22, already showing the maturity you want from a player who logged big minutes in NCAA Division I.
The Earthquakes drafted him because they needed long-term stability in central defense. He wasn’t a flashy addition, but he brought a consistent presence that coaches value.
MLS Debut and First Start
Floriani made his MLS debut early in the 2025 season, stepping into a tough environment against experienced forwards. His first start came soon after, when the coaching staff trusted him to go a full 90 minutes.
You could see the traits that carried him through college: strong positioning, calm distribution, and physical play in the box. Mistakes happen for any rookie, but he adjusted quickly to the speed of Major League Soccer.
The Earthquakes kept an eye on his workload, balancing his development with the demands of a long season. That first start marked a turning point, showing he was more than just a backup.
Debut Snapshot
| Match Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | MLS Regular Season |
| Opponent | Western Conference club |
| Minutes Played | 90 |
| Position | Center Back |
Role in the Team
By midseason, Floriani held down a spot as a rotational defender, often filling in when injuries or suspensions hit the back line. His ability to play both center back positions gave the coaching staff flexibility.
You noticed his value on set pieces, where his height made him a target on corners and a reliable marker defensively. He didn’t need to be the star, but he provided stability in high-pressure moments.
The Earthquakes leaned on him in training, too, where younger players often followed his work habits. His contract, worth just over $80,000 in base salary, reflects a player still proving himself, but his minutes on the field show the trust he’s earned.
For fans, Floriani represents the type of steady contributor every MLS team needs—filling a role that might not grab headlines but is crucial for winning matches.
College Soccer Achievements
Max Floriani built a strong foundation at Saint Louis University, where he became one of the most reliable defenders in the country. His time with the Billikens showed consistency, leadership, and steady growth on both sides of the ball.
Saint Louis Billikens Career
You watched Floriani become a fixture in the Saint Louis Billikens back line. Over three seasons, he started 53 of the 56 matches he played—showing durability and earning trust from the coaches.
He played mainly as a center back, where his size at 6’2″ and 187 pounds gave him an edge in aerial duels. His defensive positioning stood out, and he often matched up against the opponent’s top striker.
While he focused on defending, he also contributed on set pieces. He picked up a handful of goals and assists, giving the Billikens an extra threat in the box.
Career Stats at Saint Louis University
| Season | Matches Played | Starts | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 18 | 17 | 1 | 1 |
| 2023 | 19 | 18 | 2 | 0 |
| 2024 | 19 | 18 | 1 | 1 |
Honors and Awards
Floriani earned recognition for his consistency with multiple conference honors. He picked up All-Atlantic 10 selections, highlighting his impact as one of the league’s top defenders.
His invite to the 2024 MLS College Showcase also raised his profile. Being one of only 44 players chosen nationwide put him in front of pro scouts.
He got team-level recognition at Saint Louis, too, including leadership roles on and off the field. Coaches often pointed to his communication and ability to organize the back line as reasons for the team’s defensive stability.
NCAA Tournament Contributions
In postseason play, Floriani’s role only grew. You could see how he anchored the defense during NCAA Tournament runs, where mistakes can decide games.
He logged heavy minutes in knockout matches, rarely coming off the field. His composure under pressure gave the Billikens a chance to compete against higher-ranked programs.
On set pieces, he added value by pushing forward into the box. Even when he didn’t score, his presence forced defenses to adjust and opened up opportunities for teammates.
Performance Statistics
Max Floriani, a former Indiana University defender, has adjusted quickly to Major League Soccer with the San Jose Earthquakes. His role as a center-back is measured less by highlight plays and more by consistency, positioning, and reliability over 90 minutes.
You can see his impact in the minutes he logs, the defensive actions he records, and the limited offensive contributions you expect from his position.
Appearances and Minutes Played
You judge a defender’s reliability by availability. Floriani has been a regular selection since joining San Jose in 2024, earning steady minutes in the back line.
His playing time shows the trust the coaching staff has in him, even as he keeps developing at the professional level.
The table below outlines his appearances and minutes played in MLS competition:
| Season | Matches Played | Starts | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 18 | 14 | 1,210 |
| 2025 | 22 | 20 | 1,745 |
These numbers confirm his move from a rotational option to a near-constant starter. You can see the jump in both appearances and total minutes, showing his growing role in the squad.
Defensive Metrics
Defensive stats show how effective Floriani is at the core work of a center-back. You look at clearances, interceptions, tackles, and aerial duels to measure his contributions.
Floriani uses his positioning and anticipation to break up plays before they get dangerous. In 2025, he averaged 4.8 clearances per match, 1.6 interceptions, and 1.3 tackles. His aerial win rate hovered around 62%, which is solid for MLS.
He also stays disciplined. He committed fewer than one foul per game and picked up only three yellow cards in league play. That restraint helps the Earthquakes avoid dangerous free kicks and keeps him available for selection.
Goal and Assist Contributions
Floriani plays central defense, so you don’t expect him to rack up goals and assists. Still, it’s worth tracking his offensive moments. He scored once in MLS play—a header from a corner in 2025.
He hasn’t registered an assist yet, which isn’t surprising for his role.
| Season | Goals | Assists | Shots on Target |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| 2025 | 1 | 0 | 4 |
Set pieces are where he shows value. His height and timing make him a real target.
His attacking numbers look modest, but on corners, he can give San Jose an extra threat in tight matches.
Floriani’s consistency in defense remains his calling card. Those rare offensive moments just add a little something extra to his profile.
Contract and Professional Details
Max Floriani’s early pro years have been shaped by his draft position, his first MLS contract, and the typical rookie financial terms. His contract, salary, and roster spot show exactly where he stands with the San Jose Earthquakes.
MLS Contract Terms
Floriani joined Major League Soccer as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 SuperDraft after his time at Saint Louis University. That draft spot gave him some leverage, but his first deal still fits the usual rookie mold.
He signed a one-year contract with the San Jose Earthquakes on December 20, 2024. The deal includes club options for 2026, 2027, and 2028, so the team controls his rights for several years.
MLS teams usually use this structure for high draft picks. The club gets financial protection with the short guarantee, and the options let them keep a player if he really develops.
| Year | Contract Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Guaranteed | Rookie deal begins |
| 2026 | Club Option | Team can extend |
| 2027 | Club Option | Team can extend |
| 2028 | Club Option | Team can extend |
You shouldn’t expect Floriani to hit free agency soon. His future depends on how the Earthquakes see his progress each year.
Salary and Earnings
In 2025, Floriani will make a base salary of $80,622 and a total cap hit of $83,122, according to Spotrac. That’s right in line with most rookie defenders who aren’t signed to Generation Adidas contracts.
He pulls in about $1,550 per week, based on Capology. It’s modest compared to big-name signings, but honestly, it’s a solid start for a 22-year-old just beginning his pro career.
MLS salaries can go up if a player earns more minutes or signs a new deal after those club options. For Floriani, future raises will hinge on whether he becomes a regular in San Jose’s back line.
| Year | Base Salary | Cap Hit | Cash Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $80,622 | $83,122 | $83,122 |
MLS salary numbers reflect performance, sure, but also roster rules and budget categories. Teams have to get creative when building around domestic draft picks.
Roster Designation
Floriani holds a domestic roster spot with the San Jose Earthquakes, which is pretty valuable in MLS. Since he was born in Gurnee, Illinois, he doesn’t use up an international slot.
That gives the Earthquakes some flexibility. Domestic players let teams save those precious international slots for higher-cost signings, usually attackers or midfielders. For a defender like Floriani, that bumps up his value a bit.
At 22, he’s still developing. His contract keeps him on the reserve roster, typical for rookies. That roster spot means a lower salary budget charge, so the club gets some financial breathing room.
If he earns more minutes and the team picks up his options, he could move to a senior roster slot later. For now, his status shows both his rookie standing and the club’s longer-term planning under MLS rules.
Recognition and Impact
Max Floriani’s arrival in San Jose has definitely turned some heads, thanks to his reliable defending and the leadership he brings. His college years at Saint Louis University really molded him, and now he’s starting to show he can impact games both on and off the field.
Reputation Among Teammates and Coaches
Coaches notice his discipline right away, and teammates often mention his strong communication. At Saint Louis University, Floriani started 53 out of 56 games. That’s a lot of trust and consistency.
He carried that same reliability into his first days with the Earthquakes, jumping into training sessions with confidence.
Bruce Arena, who works as San Jose’s sporting director and head coach, called Floriani a “promising defender” and highlighted his ability to strengthen the back line. That kind of endorsement matters, especially when you’re joining a team that finished near the bottom of the MLS table last year.
Teammates appreciate how he organizes the defense, and they always mention his vocal presence. At 6-foot-2, he adds size in the box, but honestly, it’s his positioning and decision-making that set him apart.
Media Coverage
When Floriani got picked No. 2 overall in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft, the media jumped on the story. MLSsoccer.com and ESPN both profiled him, pointing out that he’s the highest Saint Louis University draft pick since Brian McBride in 1996. That’s a big deal for the program.
San Jose’s local media focused on the Earthquakes’ decision to invest in defense after a rough 2024. The club even traded allocation money for another first-round pick, clearly signaling a rebuild from the back. Floriani became the face of that strategy.
Reporters also brought up his offensive numbers in college—11 goal involvements. They made it clear he’s not just a stay-at-home center back; he knows how to step up when needed. That balance keeps popping up in stories about his potential impact.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Floriani could become a long-term starter—if he manages to adjust quickly to the pace of MLS. San Jose signed him to a one-year rookie contract, valued at just over $80,000. That gives the club some flexibility, and honestly, it gives him a real shot to show he deserves a bigger role.
He anchored the Saint Louis defense, which led the Atlantic 10 in goals against average. That kind of pressure didn’t faze him in college, so maybe it’ll help now as he faces quicker, tougher forwards in MLS.
The Earthquakes see him as a building block for their future. If he settles in, I’d expect him to step into a leadership role—just like he did back in college.
Below is a quick snapshot of what he did in college:
| Season | Games Played | Starts | Goals | Assists | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 18 | 17 | 1 | 2 | 1,500+ |
| 2022 | 19 | 17 | 0 | 4 | 1,600+ |
| 2024 | 19 | 19 | 3 | 1 | 1,700+ |
You can see the steady progression. That’s probably why San Jose made him the centerpiece of their draft. He looks like a guy who can make an impact right away, but there’s still plenty of room for him to grow.
