2017 MLS SuperDraft Overview and Analysis: Toronto FC

Jan 13, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Brandon Aubrey (left) shakes hands with MLS commissioner Don Garber after he gets selected with the 21th pick during the 2017 MLS SuperDraft by Toronto FC at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 13, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Brandon Aubrey (left) shakes hands with MLS commissioner Don Garber after he gets selected with the 21th pick during the 2017 MLS SuperDraft by Toronto FC at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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4) Lars Eckenrode

Position: Defender

University: University of Michigan

Fourth round: Pick 17 (Day 2)

Shoring up defensive options continued to be a priority in the fourth and final round of the SuperDraft as Toronto FC used their first selection to bring in Lars Eckenrode from the University of Michigan. The Reds acquired this pick courtesy a deal they had with the New York Red Bulls in 2014.

The Springfield native moves to Canada from the Wolverines with 67 appearances under his belt over the past four years including a year-long stint as the team captain in 2016, his senior year. He also has a goal and two assists to his name over his college career.

Whether Toronto FC fans will get to see much of Lars this year is a good question, but there’s no denial that the arrival of the defender adds a lot more options to the team ahead of a long 2017 season.

Grade: B+