DENVER, CO — The Colorado Rapids have made significant changes to their roster by waiving center back Danny Wilson and winger Sam Nicholson, as confirmed by the club on Tuesday.
Danny Wilson, 32, departs after a six-season tenure with the Rapids, a journey that began following his transfer from the renowned Scottish club Rangers FC. During his time in Colorado, Wilson made a notable impact, recording five goals and seven assists across 136 regular-season appearances. His role as a center back was pivotal in the team’s defensive strategies over the years.
Sam Nicholson, 28, leaves the Rapids after rejoining them in 2022, having previously spent time with English club Bristol Rovers FC. Nicholson’s MLS career includes two stints, initially starting with Minnesota United FC in 2017-18 before returning to Colorado. Over his time in the league, he amassed eight goals and ten assists in 105 regular-season appearances, contributing significantly to the team’s attacking play.
Rapids president Pádraig Smith expressed gratitude for both players in a recent release. “We’d like to thank Danny and Sam for their contributions on and off the field during their time at the club,” Smith said. “We wish them both all the best in their future endeavors.”
These roster moves come at a critical time for the Rapids as they gear up for the upcoming season under new head coach Chris Armas. The team is looking to rebound from a challenging 2023 season, where they finished last in the Western Conference with just 27 points, marked by a record of 5 wins, 17 losses, and 12 draws.
The Rapids are set to begin their 2024 campaign with a match against the Portland Timbers on February 24. This game, scheduled for 10:30 pm ET and available on MLS Season Pass, marks the start of a new era for the club under Armas’ leadership. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how the team adapts to these roster changes and the new managerial approach in their quest for improved performance in the Western Conference.