Columbus Crew Acquire DeJuan Jones via Trade from New England Revolution

After recovering from an ACL-injury and falling down the left wingback pecking order, Will Sands was traded to New England in exchange for talented defender DeJuan Jones. This move marks a fresh start for Sands, who will be looking to make a significant impact under the guidance of his former coach, Caleb Porter, now leading the Revs. For Columbus, acquiring Jones adds a dynamic and versatile player to their roster, bolstering their defensive and offensive capabilities as they aim to retain their MLS championship.

Major signing alert!

DeJuan Jones, 27, has earned eight caps with the U.S. national team. Prior to the trade, he spent his entire career with the New England Revolution, who selected him in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft. Jones made 165 career appearances for New England and was a crucial piece in their 2021 Supporters' Shield-winning team. Originally a right-sided attacker in college, Jones transitioned to left back at the MLS level, quickly becoming one of the most dynamic players at his position in the league. He earned his first international call-up in January 2023 and debuted for the United States Men's National Team in the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup, making four appearances and contributing two assists.

In acquiring Jones, Columbus gains a player regarded as one of the league's best attacking fullbacks, capable of playing on either flank in Wilfried Nancy’s ball-dominant 3-4-2-1 system that relies heavily on wingbacks. This is a significant signing for the reigning MLS champions as they look to defend their title. Jones is what you would call a “seasoned veteran,” playing his sixth consecutive MLS season consistently, including a very strong Revs team a few years ago which includes an MLS Cup appearance in 2022. Jones also scored against the Crew in that 22’ season in a 2-2 draw at Foxborough.

Despite playing as a left back, Jones excels in the attacking third, consistently contributing to the offense. In Nancy's system, he will take on an even more advanced role as a left wingback. The 27-year-old has tallied 28 goal contributions from both left back and right back positions, numbers that are likely to increase in Columbus. A Michigan State alum, Jones has also notched three assists in his eight USMNT appearances, impressive figures for a fullback.

Farewell to The Sandman

Sands had been with Columbus since signing a homegrown contract ahead of the 2022 season. At the start of the 2023 season, he broke through with the Crew, securing a starting role under Wilfried Nancy and seeing significant playing time before suffering a season-ending ACL injury in April. Upon returning at the beginning of 2024, Sands struggled to regain his spot, making only six regular-season appearances. Yaw Yeboah and Max Arfsten replaced Sands at left wingback in the starting lineup.

With limited minutes in central Ohio, Sands will look to bounce back with the Revs under a familiar coach. He made his MLS debut in 2022 under then-Crew head coach Caleb Porter, who is now leading New England. We wish Sands all the best.