CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) — Crown Legacy FC today announced the signing of forward Nathan Richmond to an MLS NEXT Pro contract through June 30, 2027, with Club options through June 30, 2029. Richmond was selected out of Clemson University with the No. 70 overall pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft
“We are thrilled to welcome Nathan to Charlotte after a successful collegiate career with Clemson,” said Assistant General Manager Bobby Belair. “His dynamic and versatile profile stood out ahead of the 2024 SuperDraft and we believe he will be a valuable addition to this year’s squad. Nathan has a very interesting and well-rounded profile for our Club and we’re looking forward to assisting him with the next step in his career.”
Richmond, 22, recently wrapped up a four-year collegiate career with the Tigers, appearing in 50 matches and totaling 13 goals and 12 assists. During Richmond’s freshman year, the forward made 12 appearances and recorded one goal and two assists. The Atlanta, Georgia native had a breakout sophomore season en route to an NCAA National Championship and ACC Tournament Championship. His five goals and five assists earned him a nod to the All-ACC Third Team and selection by Charlotte FC in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft.
Following the SuperDraft, Richmond returned to Clemson but missed most of his junior season due to a season-ending injury. The forward returned in 2025 and posted his best statistical season of his career, scoring seven goals and notching five assists, landing him on the All-ACC Second Team.
Prior to his time in college, Richmond played at IMG Academy and was named as the program’s Player of the Year in 2022, as well as being ranked the No. 1 midfielder in Georgia by TopDrawerSoccer. He also has experience within the MLS Academy system, suiting up for Atlanta United from U-12-U-16.
Name: Nathan Richmond
Transaction: Crown Legacy FC signs forward Nathan Richmond to an MLS NEXT Pro contract through June 30, 2027, with Club options through June 30, 2029.
Position: Forward
Height: 5’6”
Birthdate: 1/26/2004 (22)
Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
Previous Club: Clemson University
Crown Legacy FC Roster as of February 25, 2026:
Goalkeeper (1): Jahiem Wickham
Defenders (3): Ashton Kamdem, Assane Ouedraogo, Willian Sangoquiza
Midfielders (4): Aron John, Daniel Longo, Erik Peña, Andrej Subotić
Forwards (4): Rodolfo Aloko, Barzee Blama, Nathan Richmond, Emmanuel Uchegbu
