A few weeks back, we took a deep dive into the standout rookies of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) during the initial stretch of the season. Now, as we hit the summer break, it’s time to revisit those players and see how they’ve evolved as we head into the second half of the season.
This year, with the absence of the NWSL draft, we’ve seen rookies step into the spotlight in new ways. Some names continue to shine, while others are emerging as forces to be reckoned with. What’s clear is that these players are making their mark and playing pivotal roles for their teams.
Riley Tiernan – Angel City FC
Riley Tiernan was a notable highlight back in our first rookie recap, boasting three goals and an assist in just six matches. Fast forward to now, and she’s solidified her status—not only as one of Angel City FC’s standout athletes but as a top scorer in the league. With seven goals to her name, Tiernan is right in the thick of the Rookie of the Year conversation, and she’s even positioned herself as a contender for the prestigious Golden Boot, trailing only Esther González by three goals.
Her impressive +4.4 expected goals (xG) reflects her efficiency on the field; she doesn’t just take shots—she converts them. She ranks in the upper echelons of multiple offensive stat categories, according to [FBRef](https://fbref.com/en/players/18dd307e/Riley-Tiernan). Tiernan’s recent accolades include being named Rookie of the Month for May, a consecutive recognition that underscores her impact. Plus, her call-up to the U-23 U.S. women’s national team camp in June signifies her potential and rising star status.
Trinity Armstrong – San Diego Wave FC
Trinity Armstrong has stepped up in a big way for San Diego Wave FC, addressing concerns that arose after Naomi Girma’s departure. Early in June, our own Sebastian Bush identified Armstrong as an under-the-radar gem of the NWSL. At just 17 years old, she’s holding her own in the competitive atmosphere of professional soccer, impressively contributing to her team’s strong defense, which has only allowed 16 goals this season.
Her pass completion rate stands at a remarkable 88.1%—an impressive feat that has only improved in recent games. Armstrong’s contributions go beyond the numbers; she clinched the youngest player recognition in NWSL history to be named to a monthly Best XI. A highlight of her season so far was scoring her first career goal, sealing a critical 2-1 victory over Bay FC. If her upward trajectory continues, fans might soon see her and Girma flank the national team’s backline—a prospect that’s too exciting to ignore.
Taylor Huff – Bay FC
Taylor Huff has not only made a name for herself at Bay FC but has also gained recognition at the national level with three call-ups to the U.S. U-23 team. She’s become a key player in her team’s midfield, starting all 13 of her matches. Known for her exceptional passing abilities, Huff ranks fourth in the league for passes made into the penalty area and fifth for total crosses.
With 311 successful passes from 461 attempts, Huff outshines many veteran players in her position. Additionally, her knack for creating scoring opportunities—leading Bay FC with 38 shot-creating actions—shows she’s a player who can change the game at any moment. Those pesky penalties? She’s skilled at drawing them, making her a must-watch every time she steps onto the field.
Lilly Reale – Gotham FC
Lilly Reale’s rising career took a significant turn recently with her first senior national team call-up, followed by an international debut in a 4-0 victory over Ireland. Her performance earned her a spot in the league’s Best XI in April, where she has contributed with one goal and one assist in the 11 matches she’s started for Gotham FC. She’s played a vital role in helping her team’s defense remain among the league’s best, allowing only 13 goals.
Reale’s transition from central to left back has revealed her versatility and talent, proving essential to Gotham FC’s strong performance this season.
Jayden Perry – Portland Thorns
Rookie center backs are rarely in the spotlight, but Jayden Perry is changing that narrative. While most of her goals have come from the penalty spot, the ability to find the net as a defender is quite an accomplishment. Perry has quickly become a linchpin in Portland’s defense, seamlessly adapting to the fast pace of the league.
Despite being just 22, Perry plays with a level of composure that belies her age. She’s not only adept at making critical clearances but can also help transition play effectively, a skill that benefits her team immensely. Aiming for possession-based soccer, her contributions—three goals and one assist—are impressive, ranking her among the top performers on the team. That ability to step up in key moments elevates her profile on a national scale.
As we look toward the remainder of the season, it’s clear that these rookies are not just participants; they are trailblazers. Each player is carving out her legacy, and it’s exciting to think about what’s next for them in the NWSL and beyond. Whether they’re scoring goals, making assists, or playing pivotal defensive roles, these athletes prove that the future of women’s soccer is incredibly bright.
Image Source: Riley Tiernan @ Instagram
