DC Defenders coach Shannon Harris enters the 2026 UFL season as the defending champions' permanent leader after taking over mid-season and guiding the team to a title. Quarterback Jordan Ta'amu returns after throwing for 2,153 yards with 17 touchdowns last season, including 390 yards and four TDs in the championship game. Harris emphasizes maintaining focus despite the target on their backs as defending champs.

The UFL introduces several rule changes for 2026, including a banned "tush push," a four-point field goal for kicks of 60+ yards, and restrictions on punting inside the opponent's 50-yard line. Teams will also play in smaller venues like Columbus's Historic Crew Stadium (19,968) and Louisville's Lynn Family Stadium (15,304), creating more intimate atmospheres where crowd noise will play a significant factor.

Coaching shakeups include Anthony Becht moving from St. Louis to Orlando Storm with a 22-8 coaching record, while Kevin Sumlin returns to Houston Gamblers after a stint in college football. Becht brings a championship mentality to Orlando, targeting a 12-0 season, while Sumlin sees the UFL as a different environment than college without NIL concerns.