Orlando City SC Signs Homegrown Forward Justin Ellis to First Team Contract 

ORLANDO, Fla. (Feb. 20, 2026) — Orlando City SC has signed Academy and Orlando City B product Justin Ellis to a First Team contract as a Homegrown Player through the 2027 Major League Soccer sprint season, with club options for 2027-28 and 2028-29. With the deal, Ellis becomes the latest Academy product to advance through the Club’s full development pathway. 

“This is a proud moment for everyone at Orlando City as Justin becomes the latest player to rise through every step of our development pathway,” said Orlando City SC General Manager & Sporting Director Ricardo Moreira. “Justin has excelled at every level—the Academy, OCB and in his First Team opportunities—and he’s done it through dedication and a drive to keep improving. We’re thrilled with the player he’s becoming and excited for what he’ll accomplish as he takes this next step in his career.” 

Ellis, 18, made his First Team debut on May 14, 2025, in Orlando City’s match against Charlotte FC. The forward has made one First Team appearance while on a short-term agreement and has recorded 25 starts in 41 total matches for Orlando City B in MLS NEXT Pro, tallying eight goals and five assists. 

A native of Wellington, Fla., Ellis scored 18 goals for the Orlando City Academy U-19 team during its 23W-3L-4D campaign last season. He was named MLS NEXT MVP presented by Adidas and won the Golden Boot as the Lions captured their first Generation adidas Cup title in 2025. Internationally, Ellis has made four appearances for the United States U-19 Men’s National Team, recording one assist.

TRANSACTION: Orlando City SC signs forward Justin Ellis to a First Team contract as a Homegrown Player through the 2027 sprint season, with club options for 2027-28 and 2028-29.

Justin Ellis

Number: 22 

Position: Forward  

Height: 6-0  

Born: May 14, 2007, in Wellington, Fla.

Hometown: Wellington, Fla.

Citizenship: USA