Colorado Rapids Trade for Defenders Awaziem, Murphy

The Colorado Rapids have bolstered their defense by acquiring center backs Chidozie Awaziem and Ian Murphy from FC Cincinnati, with the trade involving $1 million in General Allocation Money and potential additional payments. Rapids president Pádraig Smith emphasized the players' fit within the team's strategy, noting Awaziem's leadership and international experience, alongside Murphy's solid MLS track record. Awaziem, who has played for Nigeria's national team and has a contract through 2025 with options for 2026 and 2027, brings significant European pedigree. Murphy, the 14th overall pick in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft, has consistently been a reliable performer in defense for Cincinnati. The Rapids enter the offseason aiming to rectify a defense that conceded 60 goals in 2024, marking a critical step in their restructuring efforts. Both players are expected to enhance the team as they build off a successful 2024 season.