Eddy Davis III’s meteoric rise through the Philadelphia Union ranks is nothing short of remarkable.
After a record-breaking 2024 season with Union II, the 18-year-old forward has officially signed a three-year contract as a Homegrown player, securing his spot on the first team.
His contract runs through 2027, with options for 2028 and 2029, a clear sign of the club’s belief in his potential.
Davis’ signing marks another milestone in Philadelphia Union’s commitment to developing top-tier talent through their academy system.
The Los Angeles native joined the Union in 2022 after a brief stint with New York Red Bulls II, quickly making an impression at the youth and second-team levels.
A historic season with Union II
In 2024, he exploded onto the scene with Union II, leading the team with 13 goals and helping them reach their first-ever MLS NEXT Pro Cup Final.
His performances earned him MLS NEXT Pro Rising Star of the Month honors three times in one season—an unprecedented feat for the club.
“Eddy took a big step in his growth and development last year, proving himself to be a relentless striker,” said Philadelphia Union Sporting Director Ernst Tanner. “His ability to read the game and create scoring opportunities makes him a valuable asset.”
But if you ask Davis, this was never a question of if—it was only a matter of when.
“I expected this for myself, honestly,” Davis told Sage Hurley, the club reporter. “I put in so much work in the offseason, and my goal was to get 15 goals. I ended up getting 14. But that’s just the mindset that I had—that no one’s gonna be able to stop me when I’m on the pitch.”
Davis’ confidence is well-earned. His 13-goal haul in MLS NEXT Pro set a new single-season record for Union II and ranked fourth in the league.
By the time Union II made their historic run to the MLS NEXT Pro Cup Final, Davis had cemented himself as a player destined for the next level.
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Bringing the Philly spirit to the first team
Davis’ journey to the first team has been fueled by his unwavering dedication. Even after a long season, he wasted no time getting back to work, beginning offseason training just three days after Union II’s campaign ended. That relentless approach is now driving his transition to MLS.
“I bring a Philly spirit of relentless effort, always pressing, and then I score goals,” Davis said. “That’s what they pay me to do. So that’s what I’m gonna try and do day in and day out. And if I’m not, I’m gonna press hard, I’m gonna work hard for the team, and die for the badge.”
Despite being one of the youngest players in the squad, Davis is settling in well, thanks in part to the support of veteran leaders and former academy teammates.
“I thought it would be weirder,” Davis admitted during his first preseason camp. “But every single player on the team is super cool, and they’ve been super encouraging, helping me figure this whole thing out.”
His chemistry with former Union II teammates has been evident in training and friendlies. That familiarity, he believes, will help him make an impact when the MLS season kicks off.
“For example, Frankie Westfield—I already know what he’s gonna do when he gets the ball, and he knows what I’m gonna do when I get the ball. We just sort of click,” Davis said. “Same with Markus Anderson. It’s cool to see the dynamic that we can bring when we’re on the field together.”
With his first MLS season on the horizon, Davis has one major goal in mind: scoring his first professional goal at Subaru Park and celebrating with the Sons of Ben.
“The best is yet to come,” Davis said. “I’m super excited to see you guys on opening day.”