(Photo credit: Jeff Le-Imagn Images)

The DC Defenders removed the interim tag on Wednesday and named Shannon Harris as the head coach of the UFL team.

Harris served as the interim head coach this past season and guided the Defenders to the 2025 UFL Championship. He was named the recipient of the 2025 UFL Buddy Teevens Coach of the Year Award.

'Shannon Harris isn't just a remarkable UFL story -- he's one of the most inspiring figures in all of sports this year,' UFL president and CEO Russ Brandon said. 'It's a true honor to name him head coach of the DC Defenders. This season, he kept his team united and motivated, guiding them to the 2025 UFL Championship and finishing as the league's top team. We're excited to see Shannon back on the sidelines in 2026 as DC begins its title defense.'

Harris took over the club after former head coach Reggie Barlow stepped down to become head coach at Tennessee State just days before the start of the season. The Defenders posted a 6-4 record in the regular season, defeated the St. Louis Battlehawks in the 2025 XFL Conference Championship Game and recorded a 58-34 win over the Michigan Panthers in the 2025 UFL Championship.

'I am beyond excited for this opportunity to lead the DC Defenders, especially our players, coaches and support staff,' Harris said. 'The DC community has the best fans in all sports, and I look forward to returning to the field next spring when we begin our quest for a second straight title.'

--Field Level Media