During the offseason, as teams in the NWSL retooled for the challenges of 2025, many turned to proven talent already within the league to strengthen their squads. Some of 2024’s most electrifying players sought fresh opportunities, landing in new environments where they’ll look to make an immediate impact. Here are the players you may be familiar with who found new homes ahead of the 2025 season.
Deyna Castellanos (Midfielder, Bay FC → Portland Thorns)
After one season with Bay FC, Venezuelan international Deyna Castellanos is making the move to Portland Thorns, adding a huge playmaking presence to a team that is beloved by its city. Known for her technical skill, vision, and ability to score from distance, Castellanos will fit seamlessly into a Thorns midfield that thrives on possession and creativity. With her experience playing in top European leagues and her knack for clutch performances, she’ll be a key figure as Portland seeks to return to its championship-contending days of old.
Lynn Biyendolo (Forward, NJ/NY Gotham FC → Seattle Reign FC)
The league’s top scorer has a new home—and a new last name. Lynn Biyendolo, formerly Lynn Williams, made a high-profile move from Gotham FC to Seattle Reign FC, returning to her native West Coast. A relentless attacking force for both club and country, Biyendolo is no stranger to success in the NWSL, winning multiple individual and team trophies during her time with Western New York Flash, North Carolina Courage, and Gotham FC. Her lethal finishing, speed, and physicality make her a constant threat in the final third, but just as valuable is her defensive work rate, an often-overlooked aspect of her game. Seattle is still searching for its first NWSL title and with her track record of delivering in big moments, she could be the difference-maker Reign has been waiting for.
Yazmeen Ryan (Forward, NJ/NY Gotham FC → Houston Dash)
The Houston Dash made a major statement by acquiring Yazmeen Ryan from Gotham FC in one of the biggest trades of the offseason. A two-time NWSL champion and 2024 Best XI Second Team selection, Ryan brings championship experience, versatility, and attacking creativity to a Houston side looking to reshape its identity. Last season, Ryan took her game to another level, recording five goals and six assists while earning her first USWNT cap and providing a game-winning assist in a December victory over the Netherlands. Known for her relentless work ethic, sharp technical ability, and ability to make an impact in the biggest moments, Houston is getting a player hitting her prime, just as they seek to push to become a serious contender in 2025.
Jaedyn Shaw (Midfielder, San Diego Wave FC → North Carolina Courage)
One of the biggest trades of the NWSL offseason saw Jaedyn Shaw, one of the league’s brightest young stars, move from San Diego Wave FC to North Carolina Courage. At just 20 years old, Shaw has already proven herself as a top-tier playmaker, earning her first USWNT call-ups in 2023 and helping the U.S. win the 2024 SheBelieves Cup a year later. In the NWSL, she played 22 games last season, scoring four goals and adding one assist while showcasing her composure, creativity, and ability to change games.
Shaw joins a North Carolina squad that finished fifth in 2024 but lacked a true game-breaking attacker. With her dynamic skill set and eye for goal, Shaw could thrive alongside Ashley Sanchez, who arrived in a blockbuster trade the previous offseason. The two playmakers have the vision, technical ability, and attacking instincts to form one of the league’s most exciting midfield duos—potentially reshaping the Courage’s attack and pushing them back into title contention.
Savy King (Defender, Bay FC → Angel City FC)
Known for building their squad around native Angelenos, Angel City FC made headlines in the offseason by bringing defender Savy King home after her rookie season with Bay FC. The second overall pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft, King made the bold decision to leave the University of North Carolina after just one collegiate season to turn pro, a move that quickly paid off as she helped Bay FC exceed expectations and reach the 2024 quarterfinals. Now, the 20-year-old returns to Los Angeles looking to establish herself as a cornerstone of Angel City’s backline. A composed and creative defender with the ability to play out from the back, King has a high ceiling and will be a key piece in shaping Angel City’s future.
