NWSL Blockbuster: Gotham FC Trades Lynn Williams to Seattle Reign
In a stunning trade that is sending shockwaves through the NWSL, Gotham FC has dealt star forward Lynn Williams to the Seattle Reign in exchange for midfielder Jaelin Howell, goalkeeper Cassie Miller, and an undisclosed fee. The blockbuster move sees one of the league’s most prolific goalscorers switch coasts in a deal that could shift the balance of power in the NWSL.
Williams, a mainstay with the U.S. Women’s National Team, has been one of the most dominant attacking players in the NWSL since entering the league in 2015. The 31-year-old has amassed an impressive 83 goals in 188 appearances across all competitions while helping lead her teams to four NWSL Championships and three NWSL Shields.
“Lynn is a proven winner who brings elite talent and invaluable experience to our squad. We couldn’t be more thrilled to add a player of her caliber.”
– Seattle Reign head coach Vlad Moravic
A New Challenge for Williams
For Williams, the move to Seattle represents a new chapter in her storied NWSL career. After successful stints with the North Carolina Courage, Kansas City Current, and Gotham FC, the veteran striker will now aim to bring a first-ever title to the Reign, who fell short in the NWSL Championship final in 2024.
- 4 NWSL Championships
- 3 NWSL Shields
- 83 career NWSL goals
Howell Headline Haul for Gotham
While losing a talent like Williams is never easy, Gotham FC has acquired some enticing pieces in return. Jaelin Howell, a rising star in the USWNT midfield, figures to slot right into the starting lineup. The 25-year-old has already made a handful of appearances for the national team.
Goalkeeper Cassie Miller provides depth and competition at a key position for Gotham. The 29-year-old started part of the 2024 season for her now-former club before the addition of former Chelsea netminder Ann-Katrin Berger.
Reign Ready for a Title Run
By adding Williams to an already potent attack featuring USWNT wingers Megan Rapinoe and Sophia Smith, the Reign have assembled an offensive juggernaut that could terrorize NWSL defenses in 2025. After coming agonizingly close to a championship last season, Seattle is clearly all-in on lifting the trophy this campaign.
“This move is a statement of intent. We’re not just aiming to get back to the title game – we’re determined to win it.”
– Reign captain Lauren Barnes
As the NWSL offseason kicks into high gear, this trade between Gotham FC and the Seattle Reign involving Lynn Williams, Jaelin Howell and Cassie Miller is undoubtedly the headliner so far. The impacts will be felt across the league as two of the NWSL’s most high-profile clubs swap key players in a move that could ultimately decide who reigns supreme in 2025.
