NYCFC sign M Kevin Pierre to first-team contract

New York City FC signed second-round draft pick Kevin Pierre to a first-team contract Friday, and he traveled with the team ahead of the season opener Sunday against the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Terms were not announced for the contract, which is for the 2026 season with options for future seasons through 2028-29.

Pierre, 22, was drafted out of Georgia Southern and spent time with the club during preseason training in the California desert. The midfielder played in 51 games over three college seasons, scoring two goals with four assists.

"Kevin has impressed from Day 1 in preseason and earned the respect of his teammates and coaches," club sporting director Todd Dunivant said in a release. "We believe he has the tools to further bolster our midfield, and we're pleased to welcome Kevin to New York City FC."

NYCFC finished in fifth place in the Eastern Conference last season and advanced to the conference finals, where they lost to eventual MLS Cup champion Inter Miami.