Boston Legacy of the NWSL signs goalkeeper Casey Murphy to a $1.5 million contract, according to reports.
Casey Murphy’s Historic Signing with Boston Legacy FC
A Monumental Deal in Goalkeeping
In a groundbreaking move that has sent ripples through the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), goalkeeper Casey Murphy has signed one of the most lucrative guaranteed contracts in the league’s history with Boston Legacy FC. The deal, worth a total of $1.5 million guaranteed, is not just a significant financial investment; it represents Boston’s commitment to building a competitive team as it prepares for its inaugural season in 2026. As a burgeoning franchise, Legacy FC is betting on Murphy’s proven capabilities and leadership to help establish a solid foundation.
Murphy’s journey to this point has been quite remarkable. Initially selected as the 13th overall pick in the 2018 NWSL Draft by NJ/NY Gotham FC, she later chose to begin her career in France with Montpellier. This decision highlighted her ambition and desire to hone her skills in a competitive environment. After returning to the NWSL, Murphy starred for North Carolina Courage, where she quickly made a name for herself, ultimately becoming the all-time leader in regular-season wins for the storied club.
Rising Through the Ranks
Murphy came into her own after transferring to North Carolina, where she became integral to a powerful team that consistently made deep playoff runs. Her resilience and steady performances earned her a place in the U.S. women’s national team setup. As a backup to Alyssa Naeher during significant tournaments—including the 2023 World Cup and the upcoming 2024 Olympics, where the U.S. women are vying for gold—Murphy’s readiness to step up has made her a fan-favorite and a respected figure among her teammates.
Although she has not donned the national team jersey since October 2024, her experience and training alongside some of the best players in the world will serve her well at Legacy FC. General Manager Domè Guasch has expressed great enthusiasm for Murphy’s capabilities, stating that her track record as a performer and leader will be invaluable as they build the new roster.
Building Legacy FC: A New Chapter
As Boston Legacy FC gears up for its debut, Murphy isn’t just focused on his individual contributions; she’s eager to contribute to the club’s identity. In promotional statements, she’s conveyed her excitement about playing in a city rich with sports history, often dubbed “Title Town.” This enthusiasm for cultivating a team culture from the ground up aligns with the ethos of establishing a dedicated and cohesive squad, one that fans and newcomers alike can rally behind.
Murphy’s presence is expected to catalyze a wave of momentum for Legacy FC, a team that, along with Denver Summit FC, will expand the NWSL to 16 teams. With this expansion comes the opportunity for new rivalries and storylines, and Murphy is keen to play a central role in crafting those narratives.
The signing is just one of several that Boston has announced ahead of 2026. The excitement surrounding the team is palpable, and with Murphy taking charge in goal, fans are eager to see how this new franchise will unfold in the highly competitive NWSL landscape.
Future Aspirations and Team Dynamics
In the cutthroat world of professional sports, the pressure to perform is immense, but Murphy’s ambitions extend beyond personal accolades. She’s eager to set a standard for her teammates, emphasizing the importance of leadership within the squad. As she embarks on this new journey, Murphy has indicated that she wants to be deeply involved in the community, understanding that building relationships with fans and fostering a vibrant soccer culture is just as important as winning games.
Moreover, Legacy FC’s strategic approach to team building is already evident, with additional signings complementing Murphy’s arrival. The team has already secured goalkeeper Hannah Stambaugh and Brazilian forward Amanda Gutierres, indicating Boston’s intent to assemble a well-rounded roster capable of making a significant impact in the league.
As the season approaches, Casey Murphy is determined to not just be a participant in NWSL history but to actively shape its future. Whether through standout performances on the field or community involvement off it, she is ready for the challenges ahead. If her past is any indication, her tenure in Boston is bound to be as thrilling as it is transformative.
