After leading the DC Defenders to a championship run in 2025, Shannon Harris is officially dropping the “interim” title; he’s been named head coach of the team.
The news was confirmed today by UFL President & CEO Russ Brandon. Brandon said, “Shannon’s story this season has been nothing short of incredible. He brought the team together, kept them focused, and guided them to the top of the league. Naming him head coach feels more like destiny than a decision. We can’t wait to see what Harris and the Defenders cook up in 2026 as they chase back-to-back titles.”
Harris was also awarded the 2025 UFL Buddy Teevens Coach of the Year Award. Harris assumed the interim job after head coach Reggie Barlow stepped down to pursue other coaching options right before the 2025 season began. The team finished with a 6-4 record under Harris but went on to defeat the BattleHawks in the XFL Conference Championship before defeating the Panthers in the UFL Championship, 58-24.
Harris told the media, “I am beyond excited for this opportunity to lead the DC Defenders, especially our players, coaches, and support staff. The DC community has the best fans in all sports, and I look forward to returning to the field next spring when we begin our quest for a second straight title.”
Rumors Run Wild
Offseason rumors have begun to circulate, with the biggest news coming from Pro Football Newsroom, which is reporting that all four USFL teams will relocate for the 2026 season. In an X post that has since been deleted, James Larson stated that USFL Markets in Michigan, Houston, Birmingham, and Memphis are all being relocated for the 2026 season.
Other rumors include the possibility of expansion. The league has floated the idea of adding two new teams for the 2026 season. While new reports suggest that relocating teams may be more likely, the possibility of expansion remains. While there has been no formal announcement, reports indicate that the league plans to add two new teams in 2026 and two more in 2027, bringing the total number of teams to 12.
There has also been discussion about pushing the season back a few weeks to allow NCAA March Madness to conclude, as the league suffered in the TV ratings department.
Betting On The 2026 UFL Season
Currently, there are no betting lines available for the 2026 season, but we expect to see futures odds hit the boards soon. Once the league announces the season, game lines, and futures for the 2026 UFL Championship, they will become available.
Bettors have embraced both USFL and XFL betting lines as each division has produced significant betting opportunities. The DC Defenders were the first XFL team to ever walk away with a UFL championship. While the Defenders made it to the 2023 XFL Championship, they ultimately lost to the Arlington Renegades 35-26.