The New York Red Bulls have signed their first round selection in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft, Aidan O'Connor to an MLS contract, the club announced today. O'Connor signs a one-year contract through 2024 with an option for 2025, 2026, and 2027. The University of Virginia was selected by the Red Bulls as the 12th overall pick after New York traded up by sending $50,000 GAM, 14th overall pick, and the 43rd overall pick for the 12th overall selection.

"We see a lot of potential in Aidan, and we are very excited to sign him to his first professional contract," said Head of Sport Jochen Schneider. "Aidan is a competitive individual that we are looking forward to helping develop and happy that we are able to add to our defensive depth for this upcoming season."

O'Connor has spent the last two seasons with the University of Virginia, where he made 31 appearances and recorded one goal and two assists. In his senior season, he played in 17 matches and helped post six shutouts. O'Connor led Virginia to an NCAA Sweet-16 appearance this past year and was named to the 2022 All-ACC Academic team.

The Grand Rapids, Michigan native played his first two collegiate seasons with Western Michigan University. Over the two seasons, he made 22 appearances and recorded two goals. O'Connor was a two-time Michigan Gatorade Player of the Year in 2018 and 2019 and was also a two-time United Soccer Coaches All-American in those years as well.