In today’s Major League Soccer, speed isn’t just a bonus—it’s a weapon. Whether it’s a winger racing down the flank or a full-back chasing back on defense, raw pace can flip a match in seconds.
This blog highlights the fastest MLS players of the current season. These are the players who bring adrenaline to every sprint, leaving defenders behind and fans breathless.
1. Shaq Moore – Nashville SC
Top Speed and Playing Style
Shaq Moore has clocked speeds over 35 km/h. He operates as a full-back, known for his overlapping runs and quick recovery pace.
Why He’s One to Watch
He combines acceleration with defensive sharpness. His ability to catch attackers from behind makes him a nightmare for wingers.
2. Jacob Shaffelburg – Nashville SC
Top Speed and Playing Style
Shaffelburg consistently hits over 35 km/h. He plays as a winger and thrives in wide spaces.
Why He’s One to Watch
He doesn’t just run fast—he runs smart. He times his runs to perfection and uses his pace to open up defenses.
3. DeJuan Jones – New England Revolution
Top Speed and Playing Style
Jones regularly hits top gear with explosive sprints from the back. He’s clocked just below 35 km/h.
Why He’s One to Watch
His pace allows him to overlap, press high, and recover defensively. He’s a reliable engine on the left.
4. John Tolkin – New York Red Bulls
Top Speed and Playing Style
A flying left-back who hits speeds of 34.5 km/h, Tolkin is aggressive going forward.
Why He’s One to Watch
He combines endurance with sprints, making him a two-way threat. His speed creates crossing chances and closes defensive gaps.
5. Ruan – D.C. United
Top Speed and Playing Style
Ruan has a well-known reputation for being one of the fastest MLS players, often exceeding 35 km/h.
Why He’s One to Watch
He flies down the right flank like a bullet. His attacking instincts and sprint speed create havoc for defenses.
6. Cade Cowell – San Jose Earthquakes
Top Speed and Playing Style
Cowell is one of the fastest forwards in the league, hitting up to 36 km/h in short bursts.
Why He’s One to Watch
His strength and pace make him hard to stop in transition. He thrives in counterattacking systems.
7. Alan Velasco – FC Dallas
Top Speed and Playing Style
Velasco blends quick feet with acceleration. He hits 34+ km/h regularly and is dangerous in tight spaces.
Why He’s One to Watch
His agility and top speed make him hard to mark. He can beat defenders one-on-one and explode into open space.
8. Kevin Cabral – Colorado Rapids
Top Speed and Playing Style
Cabral is lightning-quick on the wing, often clocking speeds above 34.5 km/h.
Why He’s One to Watch
His direct style and burst off the mark let him stretch defenses and create one-on-one opportunities.
9. Santiago Moreno – Portland Timbers
Top Speed and Playing Style
Moreno is fast and nimble, with recorded top speeds near 34.8 km/h.
Why He’s One to Watch
His off-the-ball movement paired with his top-end pace makes him a constant danger behind defensive lines.
10. Derrick Etienne Jr. – Atlanta United
Top Speed and Playing Style
Etienne uses his pace primarily on the left wing. He’s hit speeds just under 35 km/h and thrives in wide areas.
Why He’s One to Watch
He’s unpredictable in transition. His bursts of speed, combined with sharp footwork, give full-backs nightmares.
Why Speed Matters More Than Ever in MLS
Changing Game Dynamics
As MLS becomes faster and more intense, having speedy players can be the difference between winning and losing.
Tactical Advantage
Speed stretches defenses. It creates space. It punishes high lines. In today’s high-press era, quick players can break through pressure with one run.
Upcoming Stars with Blistering Pace
Keep an eye on youth players rising through the ranks. Many young talents in MLS Next and academy systems are being trained with speed-focused drills, making the next generation even quicker.
Training Techniques That Boost Speed
MLS clubs are now investing in advanced speed training:
- Sprint mechanics
- Resistance band acceleration
- High-speed treadmill sessions
- Recovery-focused strength routines
These techniques help players reach higher top speeds and sustain them longer during matches.
Impact of Speed on Fan Experience
Let’s face it—fans love pace. Watching a player fly past defenders or catch an opponent with a last-ditch sprint is thrilling. These moments bring stadiums to life and boost match-day excitement.
What Sets These Players Apart
It’s not just speed alone—it’s their ability to use it smartly. Each of these players knows when to accelerate, how to position themselves, and how to beat the offside line.
Final Thoughts
MLS is getting faster—and these ten players are leading the charge. Whether it’s full-backs launching counters or wingers cutting inside with speed, they bring unmatched energy to the pitch.
For fans, these speedsters make every match feel electric. And for opponents? They’re a constant threat, waiting for one mistake to make their move.
FAQs
Who is the fastest player in MLS 2024?
Shaq Moore and Cade Cowell are among the top, each hitting over 35 km/h in match conditions.
What position do most fast MLS players play?
Most of them are wingers and full-backs, as these roles demand constant sprinting up and down the field.
Why is speed so important in soccer?
Speed helps break down defenses, win one-on-ones, and create space. It’s also essential for high pressing and recovery.
How is player speed tracked in MLS?
Clubs and broadcasters use GPS trackers and advanced performance metrics to record top speeds during games.
Will MLS continue producing fast players?
Yes. With better training, scouting, and youth development programs, more explosive athletes are entering the league each year.
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