2023 MLS Expansion Draft: Everything You Need to Know

Expansion Draft Primer: Understanding the Process

Every time Major League Soccer expands, it holds an expansion draft to stock the new team's roster. The expansion draft allows the new team to select players from the existing MLS teams, providing them with a foundation to build upon. In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive overview of the 2023 MLS Expansion Draft, including the rules, eligible players, and potential impact on the league.

Rules and Regulations: Establishing the Framework

The 2023 MLS Expansion Draft will follow the established rules and regulations set by the league. Each existing MLS team will be allowed to protect up to 12 players from being selected by the expansion team. The expansion team will then have the opportunity to select five players from the remaining unprotected players.

Eligible Players: Defining the Player Pool

All players on MLS rosters as of December 1, 2022, are eligible for selection in the expansion draft. However, Generation Adidas players and Homegrown Players are automatically exempt from the draft. Additionally, players who are on loan from other clubs or who have recently been acquired via trade may have different eligibility rules.

Potential Impact: Reshaping the League Landscape

The expansion draft can have a significant impact on the MLS landscape. The expansion team will be able to acquire talented players who may not be regular starters on their current teams, giving them a chance to establish themselves in a new environment. Additionally, the draft can force existing teams to make difficult roster decisions as they protect their most valuable assets.

Timeline and Schedule: Key Dates to Watch

The 2023 MLS Expansion Draft is scheduled to take place in December 2022. The exact date and time of the draft will be announced later this year. Here is a tentative timeline of key dates related to the draft:

• December 1, 2022: Deadline for teams to submit protected player lists
• December 2022: Expansion Draft

Conclusion: Anticipating the Draft's Impact

The 2023 MLS Expansion Draft is an important event that will shape the future of the league. The expansion team will have the opportunity to acquire talented players and build a competitive roster, while the existing teams will need to make strategic decisions to protect their most valuable assets. The draft is sure to create excitement and anticipation throughout the MLS community as teams prepare for the upcoming season.