On February 18, 2026, Orlando City SC completed the acquisition of defender Griffin Dorsey from Houston Dynamo FC. The transfer deal involved $600,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) for 2026 and an additional $400,000 in 2027 GAM, with potential performance-based incentives raising the total to $1.2 million. Houston will also retain a percentage of any future transfer fees involving Dorsey.
Dorsey Signs Contract Extension with Orlando City
The Lions finalized a new contract with Dorsey that extends through the 2027-28 MLS season, including a club option for the 2028-29 season, ensuring the defender’s role in the team’s plans for the coming years.
Orlando City’s Sporting Director Comments on the Signing
Ricardo Moreira, Orlando City SC’s General Manager and Sporting Director, expressed confidence in the new signing.
“We’re thrilled to bring Griffin to Orlando,”
he said.
“He’s an experienced, proven competitor in this league and fills a key position for us. Griffin’s versatility, consistency and mentality make him a strong fit for our group, and we expect his presence to elevate our back line immediately.”
?Ricardo Moreira, General Manager and Sporting Director
Career and Achievements of Griffin Dorsey
Griffin Dorsey, 26, began his professional MLS career with Toronto FC after being drafted sixth overall in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft. Since then, he has appeared in 190 matches across all competitions, registering 16 goals and 24 assists, including 132 MLS games with 11 goals and 15 assists. The Evergreen, Colorado-born player contributed significantly to Houston Dynamo’s 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup victory.
International Experience and Youth Contributions
On the international stage, Dorsey has represented the United States at the U-16, U-18, and U-20 levels, accumulating 24 youth caps and scoring six goals. He played a vital role in the U-20 team that won the 2018 Concacaf U-20 Championship.
Implications of the Transfer for Orlando City
This signing strengthens Orlando City’s defense with a versatile and proven MLS veteran, setting lofty expectations for the team’s competitive edge in upcoming seasons. Dorsey’s experience and skill set are expected to provide stability and leadership at the back, contributing to Orlando City’s ambitions as they prepare for the 2026 season and beyond.
