As the DC Defenders prepare for the 2026 UFL season, the re-signing spree has begun. DC has brought back DT Dennis Johnson and DB Bryce Thompson, sources tell Pro Football Newsroom.
These moves are on the heels of a few re-signings over the last week and half. Those transactions include WR Ty Scott, and DE Derick Roberson.
DT Dennis Johnson
Dennis Johnson is back on this defensive line, which isn’t too much of a surprise. Johnson, while playing a quiet role, has provided DC with decent play on the interior. In 2024, Johnson contributed as a role player, totaling 15 tackles for a Defenders defense that dealt with quite a bit of turnover.
This year, with the emergence of Devonnsha Maxwell – and the dominance of Joe Wallace – Johnson was utilized in more of a rotational role. He played 193 snaps, making a couple of starts, but primarily coming off the bench.
Dennis posted nine tackles and four defensive stops in 2025, via PFF. The former Grand Valley State product has found a home in the UFL with the DC Defenders, and will continue to provide the Defenders with depth at the position.
DB Bryce Thompson
Bryce Thompson is a guy to get excited about. He’s been absolutely tremendous throughout his spring football career, utilized in a myriad of different ways by the teams he’s been with.
Bryce Thompson made his spring ball debut in the XFL, with the Seattle Sea Dragons. Thompson had a solid season with Seattle, with 34 tackles, two interceptions and six PBU’s. This earned Bryce an NFL opportunity with the Miami Dolphins in the ‘23 preseason.
After his release from Miami, Bryce originally was set to return to Seattle. However, when the UFL merger canned the Sea Dragons, he landed with the San Antonio Brahmas. Thompson proved to be an important piece in Will Reed’s defense that season, starting in eight of 10 games played. Bryce totaled 27 tackles, a sack, and two PBU’s as a Brahma in 2024.
Thompson was then traded to the DC Defenders in the offseason. GM Von Hutchins exchanged newly signed DE Jalen Harris in order to pick up Bryce – a move that was well worth it. Thompson once again had 27 tackles on the year, alongside an impressive 11 defensive stops, a sack, and three PBU’s – showcasing his ability to be around the football.
Bryce was a versatile weapon for Gregg and Blake Williams in DC. He took snaps in the slot, on the outside, and in the box. Bryce was involved in blitz packages as well, with a nose for finding the running back before the line of scrimmage. Bryce Thompson is a player who pops when watching back the film. He’s everywhere.
Final Thoughts
For General Manager Von Hutchins, these two re-signings make sense. Bryce Thompson has been a starter in this league for three years, and should only see growth and more production with a second season in the same system. That stability is something he has not had yet. Meanwhile, Dennis Johnson is someone who knows this defense, and will bring depth if no one beats him out in camp.
The DC Defenders have yet to add any free agents to their roster so far this offseason.
What are your thoughts on Bryce Thompson and Dennis Johnson returning to this Defenders football team? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
