WASHINGTON, D.C. — Toronto FC selected former D.C. United midfielder and right back Nick DeLeon Friday in the 2018 Re-Entry Draft. DeLeon was one of United’s most versatile players in his seven season with the club, playing in the midfield before coach Ben Olsen converted him to right back out of necessity.
DeLeon was the longest-tenured United player in 2018. He scored 13 goals and record 16 assists in 180 regular-season games. DeLeon was a dedicated member of the squad whose ties with United’s old home, RFK Stadium, date back to the 1970. DeLeon’s father, Trinidad and Tobago international, Leroy played for the Washington Diplomats from 1974-77.
“To my DCU family, you will forever hold a place in my heart,” DeLeon wrote on Twitter after the draft. “I had 7 wonderful years in DC playing at RFK and now seeing Audi Field. My family and I are forever grateful to the DCU organization and supporters. Love you all.”
United drafted DeLeon with the 7th overall pick in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft after a quarterfinal College Cup run with the Louisville Cardinals. He was a MLS Rookie of the Year finalist that year.
Once a starter on the wing, DeLeon spent most of the 2018 season nursing a knee injury that required surgery over the summer.
https://twitter.com/NickDeLeon7/status/1073677005801943040
In his last game for United, DeLeon came on for Paul Arriola in the 69th minute against Columbus Crew SC in the Knockout Stage of the 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs. DeLeon sprinted the full length of the field for the final 20 minutes of regular time. In the 116 minute, DeLeon rocked a 25-yard shot past goalkeeper Zack Steffen to equalize for United and force a penalty kick shootout.
DeLeon lined up fifth in the order of penalty kicks. His shot soared five feet over the crossbar. United went on to lose 3-2 in penalties. DeLeon had see the best and worst of the beautiful game in a matter of minutes. In one of his final interviews as a member of the Black-and-Red, DeLeon stood teary-eyed in front of the media. He spoke for several minutes about a career highlight, a tough low and United’s early exit from the playoffs.
United declined DeLeon’s contract option last month before attempting to renegotiate the terms. DeLeon then rejected United’s offer, making him eligible for selection in the Re-Entry Draft. Toronto FC selected the 28-year-old and will have to exercise his option-year salary.
Seven seasons, 191 total games played, 17 goals scored, and one U.S. Open Cup. @NickDeLeon7 you will always be a part of the Black-and-Red. Thank you, Nicky! Good luck in your next chapter.
Link below ⬇️https://t.co/trxdrXOy6K#DCU pic.twitter.com/gDy3tZiX3f
— D.C. United (@dcunited) December 14, 2018
“Nick is a veteran player that has experience both playing as an attacking winger and also as a defender,” Toronto FC Sr Vice-President, Soccer Operations & General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko said in a media release. “His versatility will be a welcomed addition to our club.”
DeLeon wasn’t the only United player to depart Washington this week. United forward Darren Mattocks was selected earlier this week by FC Cincinnati in the Expansion Draft.