Chris Rowland Bio
Chris Rowland is an American football wide receiver for the DC Defenders of the United Football League (UFL). Rowland played college football for the Tennessee State Tigers. After college, he signed with the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 2020. Rowland also played for the Tennessee Titans and Philadelphia Stars.
Early Life and Background
Chris Rowland was born on December 19, 1997, in Nolensville, Tennessee. He attended Ravenwood High School in Brentwood, Tennessee, where he primarily played as a running back. After graduating in 2016, Rowland decided to continue his football career at Tennessee State University, where he would further develop his skills and showcase his talent.
Path to American Football
During his college career at Tennessee State, Rowland made a significant impact on the field. In the 2019 college football season, he became the only player in Division I to score a touchdown through a kick return, punt return, reception, and rush. This remarkable achievement highlighted his versatility and athleticism. Rowland’s performance earned him first-team All-OVC honors as both a receiver and kick returner, and he was awarded the Deacon Jones Trophy as the best player at an HBCU.
Chris Rowland Career
Early Career (2020-2021)
Chris Rowland began his professional career when he signed with the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent on April 27, 2020. He was initially waived during the final roster cuts but was signed to the practice squad the following day. Rowland was elevated to the active roster for the Falcons’ weeks 16 and 17 games against the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After a brief stint, he reverted to the practice squad and signed a reserve/future contract in January 2021. However, he was waived by the Falcons on August 31, 2021.
Breakthrough (2022-2023)
Following his time with the Falcons, Rowland joined the Tennessee Titans practice squad on November 10, 2021, but was released shortly after. On March 10, 2022, he was drafted by the Philadelphia Stars of the United States Football League (USFL). Despite facing injuries, Rowland managed to make it to the active roster by April 30, 2022. He continued to play with the Stars until the team was folded due to the merger of the USFL with the XFL.
Notable Works and Milestones
Rowland’s career took a significant turn when he was selected by the DC Defenders in the second round of the Super Draft portion of the 2024 UFL dispersal draft on January 15, 2024. He was named to the All-UFL team in 2024 and again in 2025, solidifying his status as a key player in the league.
Chris Rowland Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Chris Rowland has received several nominations and accolades, particularly during his college years and early professional career. His achievements include being named to the All-UFL team and receiving the Deacon Jones Trophy.
Chris Rowland Awards Won
Chris Rowland has won multiple awards, including the UFL championship in 2025 and being named to the All-UFL team twice in 2024 and 2025. He also received the Deacon Jones Trophy and was recognized as the OVC Offensive Player of the Year in 2019.
Chris Rowland Family
Information regarding Chris Rowland’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Chris Rowland’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed.
