The DC Defenders are a part of the new spring football league, the UFL. The XFL and USFL decided to merge into one league, which will debut at the end of March. Many familiar faces are on these teams for NFL fans. The Defenders signed former first-round pick Robert Nkemdiche on Wednesday.
BREAKING: The DC Defenders are signing DT Robert Nkemdiche, per source.
The former first round NFL draft pick with Arizona now makes his way to the #UFL, bringing even more depth to an already tremendous defensive line. Von Hutchins & the @XFLDefenders are building a squad. pic.twitter.com/ZJjSaEwauX
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) January 17, 2024
DC Defenders Sign Robert Nkemdiche
Nkemdiche was selected in the first round (29th overall) by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2016 NFL Draft. The organization is leaner into their name and adding to their already stacked defense. In the 2018 season, he had his best season, posting 32 tackles and 4.5 sacks. However, he never could find a consistent spot on a roster and bounced around the league. The Defenders are hoping they can unlock his potential in the inaugural UFL season.
UFL Debuts In March
If you are new to the spring football scene, here is what you need to know. Since the two leagues merged, there was a massive dispersal draft where each team could protect players on their roster from last year. The draft ended with a “Super Draft” where teams were able to pick from any player who played spring football last year. Tuesday kicked off free agency, which is when Nkemdiche signed. Teams report for training camp on February 24th, with the season starting in late March.
The DC Defenders are hoping they can have a dominating defense in 2024. Signing Nkemdiche looks good on paper, but it remains to be seen if he will be able to perform on the field.