D.C. Defenders release final 51-man roster

The D.C. Defenders revealed their official 51-man roster in a Tweet on Thursday evening. This list of players will be set for the rest of the season, including the playoffs.

On offense, they decided to roll with just three running backs and tight ends, while opting to carry seven receivers. This concept isn't foreign by any means, but having so many receivers on the roster must mean there's a lot of talent at the position. That, or a couple guys are competing for the starting kickoff/punt returner job.

The Defenders also went for depth at defensive back, as they're planning to carry 10 going into the season. Typically, that means six cornerbacks to four safeties, and with defensive coordinator Gregg Williams' history, they'll likely use the nickel package a lot. They only have five linebackers, so a safety is going to have to fill that void.

A few position battles may be brewing

With just over a week until the regular season begins, it'll be interesting to see how the rest depth chart shakes out. There's bound to be a position battle at quarterback between Eric Dungey and Jordan Ta'Amu: two very talented players with a lot to prove. Ta'Amu played well for the St. Louis Battlehawks back in 2020 and will be looking to reestablish himself. Dungey, on the other hand, hasn't had his opportunity yet. He has all the tools to be a quality starting quarterback, but he hasn't seen the field in a real game since college.

The receiver position is also a bit of a toss up, but many expect Jequez Ezzard to assume the WR1 role. The WR2 role, however, is completely wide open and ready for someone to take it.

Featured image courtesy of the XFL and the D.C. Defenders