Although the Portland Thorns have conquered many downward trends in their 4-1 victory at Orlando Pride, the remaining five games heading into the season will only reinforce what many folks know about this team: they're still missing the final piece.
As of now you could make an argument that three or four teams are solidly ahead of PTFC: Gotham FC, San Diego Wave, and the Washington Spirit. North Carolina Courage could also be included on this list.
One thing those teams have on the Thorns are more solidified defenses. Portland's current backline consists of rookie and sophomore center-backs, Carolyn Calzada and Jayden Perry, with Sam Hiatt providing additional veteran support. Relying on young players to win you trophies in central defense is asking too much and simply, not the recipe that past champions have followed.
We must also consider President of Soccer Operations and General Manager, Jeff Agoos. He has to decide if he believes in his hire, head coach Robert Vilahamn, or not. Since his appointment to lead the team, they've only added midfielder Nina Nijstad who has already become a key player and a blossoming star.
But if Portland Thorns are to secure a top four seed to host a playoff match and have any chance of advancing to the final, they'll need to add reinforcements.
Here are my top targets ahead of the October Roster Freeze:
The Obvious
Chicago Stars CB | Sam Staab
With the addition of Vlatko Andonovski as Chief Soccer Officer in Chicago, will he decide to start over?
Staab can do it all and has continued to shine: 1st in blocks, 4th in clearances, 5th in accurate long balls, and sixth in defensive contributions.
This is a perfect fit for both player and club as PTFC will need her expertise in defense, distribution, and as a set piece taker and target.
SAM STAAB! Tricked us all! 😱
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) July 5, 2026
Her first of the season and the equalizer for Chicago! pic.twitter.com/yQqSzCU1aC
FOTMOB
Racing Louisville DM/CB | Taylor Flint
One of the most underrated players in the NWSL.
With Racing Louisville's future uncertain, the club could be relocated and see a new head coach with Bev Yanez's contract set to expire.
Although Emma Sears is the name folks will be keeping close eyes on in, Taylor Flint should be garnering as much attention.
She is elite in possession, defending, long ball distribution, and set pieces.
The Thorns have struggled holding leads and conceding late, and creating open play goals, this would fix almost every single issue.
Whether she plays DM or CB does not matter one bit.
