TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Retirement
Veteran defender Bobby Boswell called time on a decorated playing career on Monday, announcing his retirement after 13 years of service to three MLS clubs.
A commanding center back who went undrafted after his college career at Florida International, Boswell, now 34, earned a contract, then a starting role with D.C. United as a rookie in 2005. He went on to help the Black-and-Red win the 2006 and 2007 Supporters’ Shields, earning MLS Defender of the Year and Best XI honors in 2006 as well as three US national team caps.
He was traded to the Houston Dynamo ahead of the 2008 campaign and played a major role in the Orange’s perennial trophy-contending sides until 2014, when he rejoined D.C., returning to the MLS Best XI in 2014.
He was traded to Atlanta United in midseason last year as the expansion side sought roster depth during their busy stretch run, but made only one appearance for the Five Stripes.
Boswell was a model of consistency throughout his career, appearing in 26 league games or more in 11 of his 13 seasons. His final career numbers are 19 goals and 13 assists in 366 regular-season appearances (360 starts, 32,222 minutes), plus 30 postseason games played. He was also known for his engaging personality and commitment to community service.
