Orlando City SC forward Justin Ellis was named the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro Pathway Player of the Year on Oct. 15. MLS NEXT Pro gives the award to a player who demonstrates success at multiple levels of the professional player pathway. Ellis advanced through the Orlando City Academy, Orlando City B and Orlando City SC.
Ellis made four appearances and four starts for Orlando City B during the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season. He recorded three goals and two assists in those matches. The award selection was made by a voting group comprising MLS NEXT Pro head coaches, chief soccer officers, league broadcasters and content teams.
Ellis’ 2026 season with Orlando City SC
Ellis made 20 appearances and 16 starts for Orlando City SC in MLS action during the 2026 season. He scored his first MLS goal against D.C. United on April 25. Ellis finished league play with 11 goal contributions, including one goal and 10 assists.
Ellis also recorded four goal contributions in other competitions, with two goals and two assists. Before signing a Homegrown contract ahead of the 2026 season, he recorded eight goals and five assists in 41 appearances for Orlando City B across all competitions. The forward’s progression from the Orlando City Academy to Orlando City B and the First Team formed the basis of the pathway recognition.
International breakthrough
Ellis represented the United States at the U-18 and U-19 levels before receiving his first call-up to the U.S. Men’s National Team senior squad for the September-October international window. He made his senior national team debut Sept. 26 in a friendly against Peru at Inter.co Stadium. Ellis scored in the fourth minute of that match.
Ellis made four senior national team appearances, including two starts. He scored his second senior international goal in a friendly against Canada on Oct. 6. His national-team appearances added another level to a 2026 season that included contributions for both Orlando City B and Orlando City SC.
Moreira recognizes Ellis’ development
Orlando City SC General Manager and Sporting Director Ricardo Moreira said the award reflects Ellis’ work throughout each stage of his development with the club. Moreira cited the forward’s progression from the Academy to Orlando City B and then the First Team.
“Justin’s recognition as the MLS NEXT Pro Pathway Player of the Year is a reflection of the work he has put in throughout every stage of his development within our club,” Moreira said. “From the Academy to Orlando City B and now the First Team, he has consistently taken advantage of every opportunity presented to him. We are proud to see him receive this recognition and look forward to supporting his continued growth.”
FSB Take
Ellis’ award connects his production for Orlando City B with his larger role for Orlando City SC and his first appearances for the U.S. Men’s National Team. His four MLS NEXT Pro starts included three goals and two assists, while he also made 20 MLS appearances and 16 starts.
For Orlando City SC, the recognition highlights Ellis’ verified progression through the club’s development pathway. His 2026 season included contributions at the MLS NEXT Pro and MLS levels, along with two senior international goals.
Source: Original report