Atlanta United Roster Update: Big Contract Decisions Drop Ahead of 2026 MLS Season
If you’re an Atlanta United fan tracking offseason moves, buckle up—because the Five Stripes just dropped one of the most impactful roster updates in recent years. With the 2026 MLS season fast approaching, the club has confirmed its year-end roster decisions, exercising contract options on six players, declining options on five, and entering negotiations with one more. And yes—there’s a retirement that officially marks the end of an era.
In total, Atlanta now has 19 players already under contract, plus the six whose options were picked up. Add in the MLS SuperDraft, free agency, and a pair of loan decisions still pending, and this roster could look very different in the coming weeks.
Below is the full breakdown of what these moves mean for the club, how the roster is shaping up, and why this offseason might be one of the most important in recent Atlanta United history.
Six Players Stay: Options Exercised for Key Depth and Emerging Talent
Atlanta United confirmed contract options have been exercised for the following players:
- Matthew Edwards
- Jay Fortune
- Jayden Hibbert
- Will Reilly
- Jamal Thiaré
- Cayman Togashi
This group includes two young cornerstones in Fortune and Hibbert, both expected to play increased roles in 2026, as well as forward Jamal Thiaré, whose physical presence offers valuable depth up top. Midfielder Will Reilly and defender Matthew Edwards both continue the club’s focus on developing homegrown and U-22-eligible talent.
One of the more intriguing names on this list is Cayman Togashi, who showed flashes of finishing instinct late in the season and may be groomed for more minutes behind Latte Lath.
For a team looking to retool without overspending, these exercised options provide a mix of continuity and upside.
Alt text: Mercedes-Benz Stadium filled with fans during an Atlanta United match.
Five Players Out: Atlanta Declines Options as Roster Turnover Begins
On the outgoing side, Atlanta United opted not to exercise the following contract options:
- Leo Afonso
- Josh Cohen
- Brooks Lennon
- Ronald Hernández
- Nyk Sessock
The most notable name here is Brooks Lennon, who has been one of Atlanta’s most consistent contributors since arriving in 2020. Known for his service from the right wingback/fullback position, Lennon’s exit signals a tactical shift or a potential opening for a major signing.
The club also declined the option on Ronald Hernández, though negotiations for his possible return are reportedly ongoing. Hernández’s versatility and locker-room presence make him a valuable depth piece, but cap considerations may determine his status.
Goalkeeper Josh Cohen—brought in as veteran stability—and forward Leo Afonso also depart, opening salary space and potential roster spots for the SuperDraft or new signings.
End of an Era: Brad Guzan Officially Retires
After years of anchoring the back line, Brad Guzan has officially retired. The longtime U.S. international and Atlanta captain leaves behind a legacy that includes the 2018 MLS Cup, U.S. Open Cup, and Campeones Cup.
With Guzan’s departure, Jayden Hibbert becomes the lone goalkeeper currently listed on the roster, signaling that a major goalkeeper move is likely coming soon.
Loan Decisions and Transfer Options Still Pending
Two outgoing loans carry significant implications for the 2026 roster:
- Noah Cobb is currently with Colorado Rapids. The Rapids have until Dec. 15 to exercise a permanent trade option.
- Edwin Mosquera remains on loan with Millonarios (through June 30, 2026).
- Juan Berrocal, on loan from Getafe, is with Atlanta through June 2026.
Cobb’s situation is especially noteworthy—his development and minutes in Colorado may influence how aggressively Atlanta pursues defensive reinforcements this winter.
MLS Offseason Calendar: Important Dates for Atlanta United Fans
The MLS offseason is packed and moves quickly. Here’s what to watch over the next several weeks:
- Dec. 10 – MLS Free Agency opens (1 p.m.)
- Dec. 11 – Re-Entry Process, Stage 1 (1 p.m.)
- Dec. 11 – End-of-Year Waivers close (5 p.m.)
- Dec. 17 – Re-Entry Process, Stage 2
- Dec. 18 – 2026 MLS SuperDraft (Atlanta United holds three picks, including No. 2 overall)
For a full breakdown of MLS’s roster rules and mechanisms, fans can refer to the official MLS Roster Rules page on MLSsoccer.com.
Atlanta United’s 2026 Roster (As of Nov. 18, 2025)
Goalkeepers (1):
Jayden Hibbert
Defenders (8):
Pedro Amador, Juan Berrocal^, Dominik Chong Qui, Noah Cobb`, Matthew Edwards, Stian Gregersen, Enea Mihaj, Kaiden Moore~
Midfielders (11):
Miguel Almirón, Steven Alzate, Jay Fortune, Saba Lobjanidze, Alexey Miranchuk, Edwin Mosquera*, Tristan Muyumba, Will Reilly, Cooper Sanchez, Bartosz Slisz, Adyn Torres
Forwards (5):
Luke Brennan, Ashton Gordon, Latte Lath, Jamal Thiaré, Cayman Togashi
*On loan with Millonarios (through June 2026)
` On loan with Colorado Rapids (through Dec. 2025)
~ Homegrown Player (effective Jan. 1, 2026)
^ On loan from Getafe (through June 2026)
What This Means: Atlanta Poised for a Major Winter Reload
This is more than a routine end-of-year roster update—this is a franchise pivot point.
1. Youth Movement Continues
Atlanta’s commitment to young, dynamic players—highlighted by Fortune, Hibbert, Edwards, and Togashi—signals a deliberate youth-first roster strategy.
2. Several Starting Roles Are Now Wide Open
With Lennon gone and Guzan retired, the club has major holes at right back and goalkeeper. Expect high-profile signings or significant SuperDraft decisions.
3. 2026 SuperDraft Is Huge for the Club
Holding the No. 2 overall pick gives Atlanta a chance to grab a day-one contributor. ASN recently covered top Georgia prospects eligible for the next MLS pipeline.
4. Flexibility for Big Moves
Declined options free up both salary-cap and roster space. Fans hoping for a splash signing may get their wish.
Final Thoughts: Your Move, Atlanta
The next month will define the early direction of Atlanta United’s 2026 campaign. With foundational pieces locked in and several roster spots opening, the club has positioned itself to be active, aggressive, and possibly transformative this winter.
What do you think of Atlanta United’s roster decisions?
Did the club make the right calls—or did a key player deserve another year?
Share your reactions in the comments and join the conversation on social media.
Author: Quique Lopez
Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.