Kickstarting the NWSL 2026: Predictions and Key Moves for Every Team

Welcome to NWSL 2026!

Can you believe the NWSL is back this weekend? It feels like we've barely had a break! With a busy offseason buzzing with significant roster changes, expansion teams debuting, and star players making headlines, there's plenty to unpack as we gear up for another thrilling season.

Offseason Highlights

The offseason was anything but dull. The Washington Spirit made waves by signing Trinity Rodman, effectively securing her status as the highest-paid player in league history. Meanwhile, the Denver Summit FC and Boston Legacy FC prepared for their inaugural NWSL seasons amidst much fanfare.

“This year, the stakes are higher than ever as the league expands and talent swells.”

What's New?

• Trinity Rodman's Contract: After weeks of speculation, Rodman's record-breaking deal with the Spirit underscores the rising standards of player contracts in the NWSL.
• Expansion Teams: Both Denver Summit and Boston Legacy are set to stir the pot with their fresh rosters. Will these newcomers shake up the status quo?

Team-by-Team Predictions

With analysis from my colleagues Megan Swanick, Joseph Lowery, and Cesar Hernandez, we've compiled a comprehensive rundown on each of the league's 16 teams, predicting their standing based on recent changes and performances.

1. Kansas City Current

Last Season's Finish: 1st (21W, 3L, 2D), 65 points

Key Moves: A new head coach in Chris Armas will guide the Current, while they face big personnel shifts with top players, like Claire Hutton, departing. The team still maintains its core, but the impact of veteran player loss remains to be seen.

Prediction: They should remain a top contender, but injury has been a recurring theme, especially with star scorer Temwa Chawinga dealing with fitness issues.

2. Washington Spirit

Last Season's Finish: 2nd (12W, 6L, 8D), 44 points

Key Moves: Rodman's return reignites hope and strategy, adding exciting dynamics. The Spirit also acquired Claudia Martínez, who could bolster their attack alongside Rodman.

Prediction: The infusion of fresh talent could push them higher in the standings, especially with a healthy roster.

3. Portland Thorns FC

Last Season's Finish: 3rd (11W, 8L, 7D), 40 points

Key Moves: The hiring of Robert Vilahamn from Tottenham marks a bold new direction.

Prediction: Consistency is key. The team must leverage its young talents while managing the weight of experience to find their momentum.

4. Gotham FC

Last Season's Finish: 8th (9W, 8L, 9D), 36 points

Key Moves: Retaining crucial players like Jaedyn Shaw while optimizing the existing roster shows promise.

Prediction: A full, healthy squad could turn their fortunes around this season.

5. Orlando Pride

Last Season's Finish: 4th (11W, 8L, 7D), 40 points

Key Moves: Losses in key positions can impact cohesion, yet the influx of young talent suggests an ability to adapt.

Prediction: They are in contention for a playoff spot but need consistency.

6. San Diego Wave FC

Last Season's Finish: 6th (10W, 9L, 7D), 37 points

Key Moves: Acquisition of Ludmila last season brings new firepower.

Prediction: They need to address defensive frailties to improve upon last season's finish.

7. North Carolina Courage

Last Season's Finish: 9th (9W, 9L, 8D), 35 points

Key Moves: The arrival of goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan could serve as a game-changer.

Prediction: They'll need to improve their offensive output significantly to climb the ladder.

8. Racing Louisville FC

Last Season's Finish: 7th (10W, 9L, 7D), 37 points

Key Moves: Keeping their playoff squad intact is beneficial.

Prediction: They need to enhance their defensive strategies this time around.

9. Seattle Reign FC

Last Season's Finish: 5th (10W, 7L, 9D), 39 points

Key Moves: Keeping most of last year's lineup poses familiarity benefits but could also lead to stagnation.

Prediction: They risk being outpaced if no significant shake-ups occur.

10. Bay FC

Last Season's Finish: N/A (expansion team)

Key Moves: Signing Racheal Kundananji and promising talents brings excitement.

Prediction: They could surprise and climb higher than expected.

11. Angel City FC

Last Season's Finish: 11th (7W, 13L, 6D), 27 points

Key Moves: Roster reconstruction should yield improvements.

Prediction: They'll need their young stars to step up significantly.

12. Denver Summit FC

Last Season's Finish: N/A (expansion team)

Key Moves: New players could bring freshness.

Prediction: They'll undergo typical expansion challenges but could find their footing.

13. Boston Legacy FC

Last Season's Finish: N/A (expansion team)

Key Moves: Promising investments in talent are noteworthy.

Prediction: Their inaugural campaign may have growing pains.

14. Houston Dash

Last Season's Finish: 10th (8W, 12L, 6D), 30 points

Key Moves: The Dash have added promising rookies.

Prediction: They remain uncertain but have potential for upward movement.

15. Chicago Stars FC

Last Season's Finish: 14th (3W, 12L, 11D), 20 points

Key Moves: The departure of key players raises concerns.

Prediction: Improvement seems challenging while they rebuild.

16. Utah Royals

Last Season's Finish: 12th (6W, 13L, 7D), 25 points

Key Moves: Minimal changes further complicate playoff hopes.

Prediction: They may struggle to escape the bottom tier.

Conclusion

This season promises to be electrifying with all 16 teams bringing their unique outlooks into the fray. Whether you're a casual fan or a hardcore supporter, there's plenty to keep you engaged as we embark on another chapter of NWSL history. Tune in, stay updated, and let's cheer for the rise of women's soccer!