The DC Defenders have officially brought back K Matt McCrane, a trusty specialist who’s been a part of this organization the last few years.
McCrane is a spring football veteran. He played with the New York Guardians in the XFL’s 2020 season, making all eight of his field goal attempts which included a long of 53 yards.
After a couple years of being on and off of NFL practice squads, Matt made his way back to the XFL for their 2023 campaign. He was a big part of a Defenders team that made a Championship run, hitting on 12 of 16 field goal attempts that year.
Matt returned to DC for their inaugural season in the UFL. He was 16-20 on field goals in 2024, making clutch kicks throughout the year – including a game winner in week three against Arlington on the road.
INSANITY.
The DC Defenders have come from behind and pulled off the improbable comeback in a revenge win against the Arlington Renegades, 29-28!
ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED!?#UFL
— Christian Paolantonio (@CPaolantonio_) April 13, 2024
Following the 2024 season which included a 58 yard strike, Matt McCrane had a practice squad opportunity with the Detroit Lions. He remained there for a short time, before being let go – and ultimately returning to the Defenders.
McCrane’s production did see a bit of a dip in 2025. He connected on 14 of 20 FGA’s (70%), with a few misses between 40-49 yards. Matt’s longest kick this past season was from 53 yards out.
With that in mind, Matt has been a productive kicker for DC the last few years. He’s earned the right to have at least a Training Camp spot – but don’t be entirely surprised if the Defenders bring in some competition moving forward.
What are your thoughts on Matt McCrane re-signing with the DC Defenders? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
