Rapids sign three top 2024 draft picks

Field Level Media|published: Wed 17th January, 13:25 2024

Oct 21, 2023; Commerce City, Colorado, USA; Colorado Rapids fans before the match against the Real Salt Lake at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. credits: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

The Colorado Rapids have signed their top three picks from December's 2024 MLS SuperDraft.

Midfielder Wayne Frederick, the No. 2 overall pick, signed a three-year deal with an option for 2027.

Forward Kimani Stewart-Baynes, selected No. 4 overall, signed a three-year deal with 2027 and 2028 options.

Defender Nate Jones, the No. 5 overall pick, agreed to a one-year deal with options in 2025, 2026 and 2027.

Jones was drafted by Austin FC but his rights were later acquired by Colorado.

"We're excited to welcome three young talented players in Wayne, Kimani and Nate to the Rapids," said Rapids president Padraig Smith. "We believe all three possess the type of high-end potential and character we look for in the draft. Their addition provides increased depth to our group and brings more pace, power and personality into our squad as we continue preparations for the upcoming season."

Frederick, 19, had three goals and three assists in 19 matches as a Duke sophomore in 2023.

Stewart-Baynes, 18, had three goals and seven assists in 14 games as a Maryland freshman in 2023.

Jones, 22, made the All-Pac-12 first team following his 2023 junior season at Washington.

—Field Level Media

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