Reggie Cannon Colorado Rapids #4 Defender Analysis and 2025 Season Impact

Folks, if you’re watching the Colorado Rapids this season, you can’t miss number 4, Reggie Cannon. He’s jumped right in and made himself a must-watch in Major League Soccer.

Cannon brings a ton of experience and real grit to that right-back spot. He’s helped anchor the Rapids’ defense from the get-go. If you’re following the Rapids or just keeping tabs on American defenders, you’ll spot Cannon’s smart positioning, his knack for reliable tackles, and, honestly, the way he energizes both ends of the pitch.

You probably remember Cannon from his time overseas or maybe his early MLS days. Now, though, he’s setting the tone for Colorado’s back line with his commitment and sharp play. Since coming back to MLS, Cannon’s already made a difference—he’s starting regularly and just keeps delivering steady performances. If you want a deeper dive into his background and career stats, check out his Colorado Rapids player profile.

Curious about his numbers? Here’s a quick look:

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023-24	QPR	15	0	1
2024	Colorado Rapids	12	0	2

Reggie Cannon: Profile and Background

Let’s get to know Reggie Cannon a bit better. He’s Colorado’s #4, and his story is all about steady growth.

Cannon’s journey started in Chicago, born June 11, 1998, but his soccer roots really grew in Texas. He played and trained there as a kid, and if you look him up, you’ll see he went to Grapevine Faith Christian School before jumping into FC Dallas’ youth academy.

FC Dallas’ academy is famous for churning out top American talent. Cannon’s time there shaped his technical skills and work ethic. He trained with other elite prospects who all wanted to go pro.

Family played a big role, too. Growing up in a sports-focused home, he got plenty of support and guidance, which helped him take soccer seriously.

At the youth level, Cannon didn’t just play—he stood out in tournaments and competitions. Scouts and coaches took notice, and that attention paved the way for his next steps.

Path to Professional Soccer

Cannon’s transition to pro soccer started with FC Dallas. After his time in the academy, he played a season of college soccer at UCLA. There, he started at right-back and showed he could hang with older players right away.

He left college early, signing a homegrown contract with FC Dallas. That’s an MLS rule letting clubs sign their own academy guys directly. Cannon made his MLS debut for Dallas and quickly became a regular. His speed, defensive awareness, and flat-out endurance made an impact.

He didn’t just stay in MLS, though. Cannon went overseas and joined Boavista in Portugal’s Primeira Liga. After three seasons in Europe, Cannon came back to MLS. The Rapids signed him to a three-and-a-half-year deal, keeping him through 2027, with a club option for another year if they want it. If you want more on his contract, here’s the official announcement.

Notable Achievements and Milestones

Cannon’s resume is impressive, both at club and international level. For FC Dallas, he racked up over 60 MLS appearances before heading to Europe.

With Boavista, he earned regular minutes in Portugal’s top flight. That’s no small feat.

He’s also played for the U.S. Men’s National Team, debuting in 2018. He’s got more than 25 caps, including Gold Cup action.

Here’s a quick club stats summary:

Club	Years	League	Appearances	Goals
FC Dallas	2017-2020	MLS	67	2
Boavista	2020-2023	Primeira Liga	58	1
Colorado Rapids	2024-	MLS	Varies*	Varies*

*Stats for Colorado will update as the 2025 season rolls on.

Fans know Cannon as a right-back who’s consistent, always ready with a strong defensive play, and not afraid to get forward. He adjusts quickly and brings reliability every game.

Colorado Rapids and Squad Integration

When Cannon joined the Colorado Rapids, he came in with big expectations. He brought international experience and solid skills to a defense that was, frankly, in transition.

The Rapids had just made some changes, and rebuilding the backline was a focus.

Signing and Transfer Process

Cannon signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with the Rapids, running through 2027, plus a club option for one more year. Colorado snapped him up after he parted ways with Queens Park Rangers in England.

He became a free agent in August, and the Rapids didn’t waste time—they wanted more experience at the back. Rapids President Pádraig Smith called Cannon a high-caliber addition, showing the club is serious about shoring up its defense.

Main contract details:

Contract Length	3.5 years
End Year	2027
Club Option	1 year extension

Colorado made a calculated move here. They’re plugging holes from recent transfers and injuries, but you can tell there’s some long-term planning, too.

Role as Defender and Positioning

Cannon came in to fill the gap left by Moïse Bombito’s departure. Expect to see Cannon mostly at right-back—his comfort zone—but he’s got the versatility to cover other spots across the backline.

His style? Direct and athletic. He relies on pace, tough tackling, and a sharp sense of where to be. With his international caps for the U.S. and experience in both Europe and MLS, Cannon helps the Rapids press higher up the field. That means more pressure and more options for defensive setups.

Defensive strengths:

• Speed and recovery on transition plays
• Physical and aerial presence
• Reliable in one-on-one situations

Cannon fits a squad that likes to take the initiative defensively, not just sit back and react.

Squad Dynamics and Key Teammates

Watch for Cannon lining up with center backs like Lalas Abubakar and Michael Edwards. That pairing gives the Rapids a nice blend of speed, strength, and smart positioning.

Sam Vines holds down the left-back spot, and together with Cannon, they form a fullback duo that can stretch the field but still keep things tight at the back.

The Rapids’ defensive group now mixes experience and youth. Cannon’s arrival turns up the competition for spots and raises the bar in training. That’s going to push everyone, especially the younger guys, to step up.

In the locker room, Cannon’s international background brings leadership and a fresh outlook. He communicates well and brings discipline, so you’ll see him quickly step up as one of the defensive leaders on the field.

Potential defensive lineup with Cannon (#4):

• LB: Sam Vines
• CB: Lalas Abubakar
• CB: Michael Edwards
• RB: Reggie Cannon

That setup gives the Rapids plenty of flexibility depending on the opponent or game plan.

Jersey Number: #4 Significance

Wearing #4 as a defender? That’s more than just a number. It’s a tradition for tough, tactical players who organize the back and lead the defense.

History of the Number Four in Soccer

Soccer’s #4 jersey usually goes to central defenders or defensive midfielders. It’s for players who keep cool under pressure, break up attacks, and help launch counters.

Legends like Sergio Ramos and Patrick Vieira have made #4 famous around the world.

When a player wears #4, it signals trust and responsibility. Teams hand it to guys expected to guide the defense, win duels, and show maturity.

Young players coming up through the ranks see #4 as a badge of honor, and clubs everywhere keep that tradition alive.

Legacy at Colorado Rapids

For the Rapids, #4 now belongs to Reggie Cannon. He joined to bring experience and stability to the defense.

Cannon’s choice of #4 fits his reputation as a dependable right-back—just look at his time with the U.S. Men’s National Team and in Europe.

Here’s how he’s doing for the Rapids:

Season	Matches Played	Tackles	Clearances	Interceptions
2025	18	45	55	29

Cannon wears #4 not just as a number, but as a sign of consistency and leadership. He brings structure to the back line, keeping up the Rapids’ tradition of strong defenders in that jersey.

If you want more on his role and latest stats, check his Colorado Rapids profile.

Defensive Qualities and Playing Style

Reggie Cannon’s defensive skills really pop. He’s got sharp reads, plenty of stamina, and he can adapt all across the backline.

His style is practical—he relies on awareness, speed, and the ability to cover multiple roles.

Tactical Awareness and Vision

You see Cannon’s tactical awareness right away. He tracks runners, gets into position early, and reads plays before they turn into trouble.

His vision, both with and without the ball, helps him shut down options for attackers.

Cannon anticipates passes, intercepts crosses, and steps up to break up combinations near his area. He rarely gets caught out, even when things move fast.

He marks tight, giving attackers little room to breathe.

When the Rapids push forward, Cannon knows when to stay home and when to step up. His choices come from solid judgment, always reading the flow of the game and his teammates’ movement.

Athleticism on the Field

Let’s talk about Cannon’s athleticism—it’s the kind of spark that lights up your defense. He’s got real wheels, matching the fastest wingers stride for stride down the right. When the counterattack comes, he hits the gas and chases down those loose balls.

You notice his strength right away. He shrugs off attackers, holds his own in aerial battles, and wins those shoulder-to-shoulder scraps. Cannon’s stamina? It’s impressive. He just keeps going, staying in the mix all game long.

He doesn’t get caught flat-footed, either. Cannon can change direction on a dime, which helps him lock up in one-on-one situations and close down space fast. That blend of speed and muscle lets him handle whatever style of attacker comes his way—crafty dribblers or big, bruising forwards.

Key Defensive Stats (2025 Season):

Matches Played	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances	Minutes Played
21	39	25	52	1700

Versatility Across Defensive Roles

Cannon doesn’t stick to just one spot. He’s right at home as a classic right back, but he’ll shift to the middle or even to left back if the Rapids need it.

That kind of flexibility is gold for any coach. You trust him on the right, but he’s shown he can slide across the line and keep things tight wherever he lands.

He can switch roles mid-game, giving the team a tactical edge. Managers have leaned on him for both man-marking and zonal setups.

He keeps the backline organized, talking his teammates through shifts and reading the play as it develops.

Contribution to the Backline

With Cannon out there, the defensive unit looks stronger—no doubt about it. He leads with a calm head, even when the pressure’s on.

When opponents throw numbers forward, Cannon steps up. He organizes the defenders, keeping the Rapids in shape and ready.

He’s a force clearing danger, whether he’s winning headers, making big tackles, or jumping in for clutch interceptions. You’ll catch him blocking shots at key moments.

When the play breaks down, Cannon is usually the first to reset the line and push the team forward. He’s earned trust by starting game after game, especially after bouncing back from injury.

For more on his impact, check out his recent defensive performances.

Impactful Performances and Key Stats

Reggie Cannon’s steady play and aggressive approach have done wonders for the Colorado Rapids defense. He creates chances up the right, but he’s just as quick to shut down attackers—even against the league’s best.

Goals and Assists

Cannon’s not the guy you expect to lead the team in goals from right back. Still, he chips in with overlapping runs and some sharp passes into the box.

In 2025 MLS play, he’s focused on defense, but when he gets forward, he’s good for an assist or even a rare goal. His ability to stretch the field and link up with forwards gives the Rapids another weapon.

Here’s a quick look at his numbers with Colorado:

Season	MLS Matches	Goals	Assists
2024	21	1	2
2025	15*	0	1

*2025 stats are up to June

You might not see Cannon’s name in the headlines for attacking stats, but his reliability and work rate make him a key piece for the Rapids.

Noteworthy Matches in MLS

Cannon’s best stuff comes out when the games matter most. Against powerhouses like Seattle or LAFC, he locks down his flank and keeps dangerous attackers wide.

He wins duels, makes blocks, and helps preserve clean sheets against tough rivals. In the Leagues Cup group stage, Cannon earned praise for tight marking and smart passing.

He even picked up a pinpoint assist in a big win over Sporting KC, helping the Rapids grab three massive points in the playoff race.

When the Rapids need defensive leadership, Cannon shows up calm and alert, especially in transition. Coaches trust him to play every minute in must-win games.

For fans, seeing #4 on the field means the defense is set for the big moments. Dive into more of his career highlights at Transfermarkt’s Reggie Cannon player profile.

Previous Clubs and Transfer History

Reggie Cannon’s pro journey covers Major League Soccer and Europe, with key transfers and different roles along the way. He rose up at FC Dallas, made a move to Portugal’s Boavista FC, and then found a new home with the Colorado Rapids.

Time at FC Dallas

Cannon first made noise at FC Dallas. He joined their youth setup in 2014 and signed as a Homegrown Player in 2016, fresh out of high school.

He broke into the senior squad in 2017. By the time he left Dallas, people saw him as one of the league’s top young right-backs.

Over 67 regular season games, he tallied 2 goals and 5 assists, showing off both defensive grit and a willingness to get forward.

Here’s how his Dallas numbers look:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2017-2020	67	2	5

Those steady performances caught the eye of clubs abroad and helped cement his spot with the USMNT.

Experience with Boavista FC

After his breakout in MLS, Cannon made the jump to Boavista FC in Portugal’s Primeira Liga in September 2020. That move tested him with a new style and stiffer competition.

He started regularly and built a reputation for pace and pressing. Cannon made nearly 60 league appearances at Boavista, adapting quickly to the European game.

Even with Boavista’s ups and downs, Cannon stayed reliable at right-back and rarely missed a match.

His play in Portugal attracted interest from teams like OGC Nice in France and some EFL Championship clubs, including Queens Park Rangers. Those moves didn’t end up happening.

Loan Periods and Other Clubs

Cannon never went out on loan at Dallas or Boavista. He transferred directly each time.

In August 2023, he became a free agent after a contract dispute with Boavista. For a stretch, his name popped up in rumors with clubs across Europe and the U.S., but he stayed unsigned.

He finally landed with the Colorado Rapids in September 2024, signing a four-year deal through 2027. You can check out his transfer history for the details.

Cannon’s path is a straight shot—no loan spells, just direct moves and growing interest as he built his career.

International Experience and Achievements

Reggie Cannon’s international career includes call-ups to the U.S. Men’s National Team, medal runs in the CONCACAF Nations League, and big moments in the Gold Cup. His showings against Mexico have really helped define his reputation as a dependable defender when the stakes are sky-high.

U.S. Men’s National Team Call-Ups

Cannon first made the USMNT roster in 2018. He debuted as a starter against Peru, showing off a cool head and steady play that earned him more looks at right back.

Since then, he’s been called up plenty, racking up 28 caps by late 2022. His mix of agility, strength, and tactical smarts fits what the national team is building.

He moves around in different defensive systems, making himself valuable in World Cup qualifiers and friendlies. Even with tough competition for minutes, Cannon’s consistency keeps him in the mix for big games.

With the Rapids, you can see that international experience pay off in his reliable play.

CONCACAF Nations League Success

Cannon played a big part in the U.S. run through the CONCACAF Nations League. He featured in several key matches leading up to and during the 2021 tournament, helping the team lift the trophy.

He stepped up in tense games—those that went to extra time or penalties. His overlapping runs and defensive coverage helped the U.S. top some tough regional foes.

Here’s a quick look at his Nations League stats:

Tournament	Matches Played	Minutes	Assists	Clean Sheets
2020-21 Nations League	4	290	1	2

He was reliable at the back and eager to push forward when the team needed it.

Gold Cup Contributions

Cannon has made multiple Gold Cup squads. In 2021, he played important minutes in both the group and knockout rounds, giving the U.S. stability at right back.

He shut down wide attackers and started quick counters. Injuries set him back early in that tournament, but he returned for the later games and stayed solid defensively.

You could see his recovery speed and tackling on display, especially as the U.S. made a deep run.

Cannon’s Gold Cup outings show he can handle CONCACAF’s fastest forwards. He’s a proven option for the national team in regional battles.

Matches Against Mexico

Nothing gets the blood pumping like USA versus Mexico. Cannon has played in several versions of this rivalry, including finals and tournament semis.

He’s faced off against some of Mexico’s best, where every tackle and clearance matters. Cannon’s discipline and smart decision-making stand out.

He helped the U.S. win a dramatic Nations League final over Mexico, adding to his rep as a clutch performer under pressure.

These matches not only highlight Cannon’s defensive chops, they help cement his place in recent U.S. soccer history. For more on his international milestones, check out the USMNT and CONCACAF competition victories.

Coaching, Management, and Club Culture

Reggie Cannon’s time with the Colorado Rapids shows how a clear coaching vision and a focus on player development shape the team’s identity. If you’re trying to figure out what drives the Rapids’ success and unity, start with the people leading the charge.

Chris Armas’ Coaching Influence

Chris Armas has made a real impact since taking over the Rapids. He’s known for a direct approach and strong relationships with players.

Armas quickly led the Rapids back to the playoffs for the first time since 2021. He stresses organization, effort, and discipline in every session.

He’s also brought in experienced players like Cannon, who help anchor the defense. Under Armas, everyone knows their job, and defenders play with confidence.

After the club clinched a playoff spot, Armas picked up Team of the Matchday honors, showing the league is taking notice of his results.

Key Stats Under Chris Armas

Season	Playoff Berth	Goals Allowed	Clean Sheets
2024	Yes	42	11

Player Development and Team Philosophy

Colorado’s roster? It’s a fascinating mix—seasoned internationals rubbing shoulders with hungry young guys. The Rapids have always put their money where their mouth is when it comes to homegrown players. That’s helped the club keep its identity, even while other teams chase the next big headline signing.

Cannon stands as the 11th homegrown on the roster. That tells you plenty about Colorado’s ongoing push to develop talent from within.

Every player here knows his job. The Rapids don’t just promote from within—they want to raise the bar every year. Cannon, for example, came up through FC Dallas, then took his shot in Europe, and now he’s back in MLS with Colorado.

You really see how the Rapids value both internal growth and international experience. If you want a window into club culture and why Colorado appeals to players who buy into building for the long haul, look no further. Check out more on Cannon’s story and how homegrowns fit in at Get to Know Reggie Cannon.

Relationships with Key Players

Reggie Cannon brings a wealth of experience from Europe and MLS to the Rapids’ backline. He leans on his connections with top teammates and adapts to their styles, which really shapes the club’s defensive structure and how they transition up the field.

Synergy with Zack Steffen

Let’s talk about that Cannon-Steffen partnership in the defensive third. Steffen’s reputation? He commands the box and launches quick counters, as you can see here and here. He counts on Cannon to keep passing lanes open and lock things down defensively.

Both guys know each other from the US Men’s National Team, so there’s instant trust. You’ll spot Cannon keying off Steffen’s signals on set pieces and counters. They both read the game well and shift their positions to close gaps, cutting down on defensive breakdowns.

If you’re a numbers person, check out these defensive stats. They tell the story of a backline that’s settling in:

Player	Clearances	Tackles Won	Passing Accuracy
Reggie Cannon	38	19	86%
Zack Steffen	10	2	80%

Collaboration with Djordje Mihailovic

Watch Cannon work with Djordje Mihailovic and you’ll see a different side of his game—build-up play and attacking transitions. Mihailovic plays advanced, always looking for options wide or runners overlapping. Cannon’s timing on those runs down the right? It stretches defenses and opens up space.

When Mihailovic gets the ball, Cannon knows when to fly forward or hang back, always reading the moment. This partnership can overload the flank, freeing Mihailovic to drift inside and pick out forwards.

Their chemistry gives the Rapids a boost in both patient possession and those quick, dangerous breaks. Cannon’s speed lets him recover if things get dicey.

On-Field Chemistry with Teammates

Cannon’s influence goes beyond just linking up with the stars. He’s out there barking instructions, guiding the younger defenders, and keeping the backline tight in tough moments. His leadership and quick reactions are crucial, especially with new faces coming in.

He plays comfortably with veterans and rookies alike, settling nerves and adding tactical discipline. Watch those short passes and sharp positioning—Cannon keeps the play moving from the back.

You really notice his impact in tight games, when trust and communication can make or break a result. For Colorado, adding Cannon brings a steadying presence and a touch of class when it counts.

Notable Matches and Opponents

If you want to judge a defender, see how he handles the league’s best. Reggie Cannon, wearing number 4 for Colorado, never backs down—especially when he’s up against high-powered offenses.

Clashes with Portland Timbers

When the Rapids take on the Portland Timbers, you just know it’s going to get physical. These matchups crank up the speed and intensity, pushing every defender to stay alert.

Cannon usually draws the assignment of marking those aggressive Portland wingers. They love to press high and hunt for any little gap.

In the last couple of meetings, Cannon really showed why the Rapids count on him. He handled overlapping fullbacks with smart positioning and didn’t back down from a challenge.

He made some clutch clearances and put in tackles right when the team needed them.

Here’s a quick look at his defensive numbers from the last two games against Portland:

Date	Tackles	Clearances	Interceptions	Fouls Committed
05/06/2025	3	5	2	1
09/21/2024	4	4	1	2

You’ll spot Cannon using his speed to match the Timbers’ attackers stride for stride. He steps in and clears danger before it turns into something worse.

That’s the kind of reliability that makes coaches sleep a little easier before big games against the Portland Timbers.