Portland Thorns FC announce updated 2023 roster ahead of NWSL season opener

The Portland Thorns have announced their roster and there are two major surprises: Lauren DeBeau has been released and Reyna Reyes’ contract is not finalized.

With Janine Beckie added to the season-ending injury list, Reyes will occupy the final roster spot once her contract is completed and signed.

DeBeau, who was drafted in the second round at #24 overall, being let go is a shocker. Her rights have also been released, meaning she is available to sign with any team. She was projected to get some crucial opportunities in the frontline. Her versatility would of been a huge boost to Portland, especially as they’ll be without Beckie for the entire season.

Natalie Beckman is now listed as a forward which may explain the move after primarily being a defender her rookie season.

2023 Thorns FC Roster

Available Players: 24

Goalkeepers (3): Bella Bixby, Shelby Hogan, Lauren Kozal (DRAFT)

Defenders (8): Kelli Hubly, Meghan Klingenberg, Natalia Kuikka (INTL), Tegan McGrady, Emily Menges, Meaghan Nally, Gabby Provenzano, Becky Sauerbrunn

Midfielders (7): Sam Coffey, Crystal Dunn, Olivia Moultrie, Taylor Porter, Rocky Rodríguez, Christine Sinclair, Hina Sugita (INTL)

Forwards (7): Janine Beckie (SEI), Natalie Beckman, Hannah Betfort, Izzy D’Aquila (DRAFT), Sophia Smith, Michele Vasconcelos, Morgan Weaver

See the Portland Thorns’ full press release, here.

Projected Starting XI for regular season opener at home versus Orlando Pride (4-3-3)

Weaver - Smith - Hina
Rocky - Dunn - Coffey
Klingenberg - Sauerbrunn - Hubly - Kuikka
Bixby

Expected Subs: D’Aquila, Moultrie, Reyes, Sinclair, Menges
Additional available Subs: Hogan, Nally, Beckman, Betfort, Vasconcelos, Porter, Provenzan

What’s your starting XI? Let us know in the comments.