Former Revolution defenders Smith, Woodberry latch on with USL clubs

The Revolution have parted ways with more players than they have acquired this offseason. In December, the club traded forward Kei Kamara for draft picks and declined contract options on seven players, including defenders Donnie Smith and London Woodberry.

Though the possibility remained that Smith and Woodberry would return as depth pieces, that window has closed, as both players signed with USL sides this week. Woodberry joined expansion-side Nashville SC, while Smith joined the Charlotte Independence.

Last season, Smith—a North Carolina native—went on a 12-match loan spell with the Independence. The former second-round draft pick collected two assists while playing in Charlotte. And on Monday, Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries brought him back on a permanent basis.

Woodberry made 43 appearances for the Revolution from 2015-2016. A one-time FC Dallas homegrown signing, the right back fell out of favor last season and will not suit up for Brad Friedel’s club in 2018.

Now, the Revolution must add defensive depth ahead of the 2018 season. Even with the signing of left back Gabriel Somi, who will likely serve as a regular starter for Friedel, the club rosters just five natural defenders. That number will need to increase for the Revolution to weather injuries, international call-ups and mid-season inconsistencies.

The team will have a chance to build that depth on Friday when the 2018 MLS SuperDraft kicks off. The club currently owns the 8th 9th overall picks.