The Seattle Sounders will still have Paul Rothrock in 2026 and beyond after the club announced that they had re-signed the midfielder on Monday. As recently as a couple of weeks ago, it was looking as though Rothrock may leave on a free agent deal as several other MLS clubs expressed serious interest, but he instead chose to remain with his hometown club on a new contract that is guaranteed through 2028-29 with option for 2029-30.
“Seattle is home. There were other opportunities, but my heart has always been here,” Rothrock said in a team statement. “This city, this club and the people around it mean everything to me. I believe in what we’re building, I believe in this group and I’m proud to continue representing Seattle and competing for championships with the Sounders.”
Rothrock, 26, is coming off a pair of seasons in which he transformed himself from someone just fighting for a roster spot to a real contributor on a team with trophy aspirations. Last year, he had five goals and nine total assists while playing in 47 of the team's 50 matches.
Jeremiah Oshan
But raw counting stats don’t quite do Rothrock justice. In addition to doing all sorts of tireless running that opens up the game for teammates, he has also shown a knack for scoring timely goals. The biggest of those may have been his capper against Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup final, which delivered the Sounders their first trophy since 2022.
“Paul embodies the kind of Pacific Northwest grit that has always defined what it means to be a Sounder,” Sounders FC Head Coach Brian Schmetzer said. “He does the hard work, he competes and he never shies away from the tough moments. Keeping someone like Paul in Seattle means a lot to all of us and I’m excited to continue working with him. He’s earned his place here and we’re glad he’s staying part of this team.”
Jeremiah Oshan
The Seattle native’s return was not always guaranteed, though. A year ago, the Sounders first discussed a longterm extension but the two sides were too far apart to make it work. The Sounders also tried to get Rothrock re-signed before the end of the 2025 season, but again couldn't find a number they both could agree to before he entered free agency.
Instead, Rothrock chose to explore his options. Although several teams made compelling pitches and may have even offered him a raise, none of that was enough for Rothrock to walk away.
“Paul has been a reliable part of the group since he joined the club two seasons ago,” Sounders FC General Manager & Chief Soccer Officer Craig Waible said. “He’s stepped up in important moments. We value his professionalism and we’re excited to sign him to a new deal that he’s earned through consistent contribution and a strong presence within the group.”
