Another one bites the dust for the DC Defenders, as speedy WR Chris Blair has signed an NFL contract with the Atlanta Falcons after a successful workout with the team.
Blair finished the 2023 XFL season ranked third in receiving with 534 yards on 26 catches (22.8 yards per reception), along with 3 touchdowns. Blair’s 22.8 YPR was a league-high (min. 10 receptions).
Highest @PFF Graded @XFLDefenders Player from Week 7:
WR Chris Blair: 90.0
Blair finished with 5 receptions for 139 yards, and a touchdown. #XFL2023
— Christian Paolantonio (@CPaolantonio_) April 4, 2023
Chris Blair joins fellow Defenders wideouts Lucky Jackson and Brandon Smith as the third WR to sign with the NFL from DC. Blair also becomes the fifth DC player to sign with the NFL. Other Defenders players that have signed NFL contracts since the conclusion of the season include, LB Ferrod Gardner (Commanders) and P Daniel Whelan (Packers).
With the XFL Rookie Draft being held today, lookout for DC to target WRs early and often. Loads of talent to be snagged from in this class, and Defenders Director of Player Personnel, Von Hutchins, is prepared to bring in players that exemplify the DC standard:
Statement from DC Defenders Director of Player Personnel, @_VHutchins regarding tomorrow’s @XFL2023 Rookie Draft:
“We’re looking to add physically dominate, skillful players with high football intelligence who understand the Standard that we’ve credited to #DefendDC”
— Christian Paolantonio (@CPaolantonio_) June 15, 2023
What are your thoughts on the DC Defenders ongoing offseason? Which players would you like to see DC target in the draft? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
