NEWS: Atlanta United sign Matt Edwards to Homegrown contract

Effective immediately.

Atlanta United announced on Friday that they have signed 21-year-old defender Matt Edwards to a Homegrown Player contract through the 2025 season, with option years for 2026 and 2027.

“Matt joined our Academy at the U-17 level and has been patient with his development process, returning to the club after playing three seasons at North Carolina before earning his role as captain for Atlanta United 2,” Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra said. “He’s been a consistent performer this year and has earned this Homegrown contract with his play on the field this season. He’s a high-character teammate and is a shining example of the different pathways players that players can take to earning a First Team contract.”

Edwards has appeared for the first team in U.S. Open Cup, playing well and recording an assist against Charlotte Independence. While he has certainly earned his contract through hard work, the club also desperately need his help currently to overcome an incredibly depleted roster.

With Caleb Wiley departing for the Olympics soon and potential reinforcements unable to be registered until the secondary transfer window opens, this step was the most logical solution to ensure Rob Valentino has capable options to field a competitive lineup this summer.

Congrats to Matt on this huge accomplishment. We hope to see him do well for the big club!