Patrick Mullins, a name that resonates with soccer fans, especially those who follow Major League Soccer (MLS), is one of the most notable American forwards of the last decade. Known for his prolific college career, his ability to deliver goals on the professional stage, and his resilience through injuries, Mullins carved out a solid MLS career. From his early days in New Orleans to his time at the University of Maryland, and later, to his professional years with teams like the New England Revolution, New York City FC, D.C. United, and Toronto FC, Mullins made an indelible impact. This article takes a deep dive into the career of Patrick Mullins, covering his early life, college success, professional journey, playing style, accolades, and legacy.
Early Life and Soccer Beginnings
Born on February 5, 1992, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Patrick Mullins was introduced to soccer at a very young age. Growing up in a soccer-enthusiastic family, Mullins honed his skills with local clubs, showing early promise as a natural goal scorer. He played for the Chicago Fire Juniors and developed through their youth academy, which laid a solid foundation for his future success. His strong technical abilities, quickness, and vision on the field quickly set him apart from his peers.
Mullins attended Jesuit High School in New Orleans, where his talent became undeniable. His play on the field garnered statewide recognition as he helped his high school team win multiple championships. His standout performances earned him the prestigious title of Louisiana Gatorade Player of the Year in 2008. This recognition, combined with his exceptional skills, paved the way for his collegiate career.
College Career at the University of Maryland
Mullins made the decision to continue his soccer journey at the University of Maryland, where he would go on to leave an indelible mark on the program. After enrolling in 2010, he wasted no time in making his presence felt on the field. As a freshman, Mullins quickly established himself as one of the top players in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), earning the ACC Freshman of the Year honor and scoring five goals in his first season.
His sophomore year saw continued growth and development, as Mullins contributed six goals and three assists to the Maryland team. He was named to the Second Team All-ACC, and it was clear that he was becoming one of the most promising collegiate soccer players in the country.
However, it was during his junior year (2012) that Mullins truly broke through into national prominence. He had an explosive season, scoring 17 goals and recording 10 assists. His offensive prowess helped lead the Maryland Terrapins to the College Cup, the NCAA Men’s Soccer Championship semifinals. Mullins’s stellar season earned him the Hermann Trophy, awarded to the best male college soccer player in the United States. This was the first of two consecutive Hermann Trophies he would win, a rare achievement in American soccer. His remarkable play and leadership on the field solidified his place as one of the nation’s elite soccer talents.
In his senior season (2013), Mullins reached new heights, leading the NCAA with 19 goals and eight assists. He helped Maryland reach the NCAA Championship game, and for his efforts, he was awarded his second Hermann Trophy. By the end of his college career, Mullins had amassed 47 goals and 20 assists, cementing his status as one of the most prolific players in NCAA history. His combination of leadership, creativity, and finishing ability made him a standout player at every level of competition he played.
Professional Career in Major League Soccer
Entering the MLS Draft
After completing a stellar college career, Mullins entered the 2014 MLS SuperDraft, where he was selected 11th overall by the New England Revolution. His arrival in MLS was highly anticipated, and expectations were high given his college success. Mullins’s first season in the professional ranks was solid, as he made 21 appearances and scored four goals, contributing to the Revolution’s push to the MLS Cup 2014, where they finished as runners-up. Though the Revolution lost in the final, Mullins’s potential as a top-tier forward was clear.
New York City FC (2015–2016)
In 2015, Mullins’s career took a turn when he was selected by New York City FC in the MLS Expansion Draft. Although his time with NYCFC was short, it marked an important chapter in his MLS journey. Mullins played two seasons with New York City FC, where he scored six goals during the club’s inaugural 2015 season. While he wasn’t always a consistent starter, his ability to contribute to the team when called upon was evident. Mullins’s performances, especially his knack for scoring goals in big moments, made him an important piece of NYCFC’s attacking setup.
D.C. United (2016–2018)
Mullins’s move to D.C. United in 2016 marked the next phase of his career, where he truly started to find his rhythm as a reliable starting forward. His first season with D.C. United was one of the most successful of his career, as he scored eight goals and provided several assists in just 15 appearances. His ability to lead the line and score goals consistently helped D.C. United during a period of transition.
One of the most memorable moments of Mullins’s MLS career came in 2017, when he became the first player in MLS history to score four goals in a single half during a match against the Chicago Fire. His explosive performance solidified his reputation as a clinical finisher and a dangerous threat in front of goal.
Columbus Crew SC (2018–2019)
In July 2018, Mullins was traded to Columbus Crew SC, where he continued to contribute to the team’s attack. Although he spent just a brief time with Crew SC, Mullins made his presence known by scoring goals and providing depth to a team in need of attacking options. His time in Columbus, although shorter than his other stints, helped cement his reputation as a well-rounded forward capable of adapting to different systems of play.
Toronto FC (2019–2021)
Mullins’s final MLS club was Toronto FC, where he spent the final years of his professional career. Mullins added experience and leadership to Toronto’s forward line, and despite battling injuries, he continued to be an important player for the team. His contributions in crucial matches, including goals in both league and CONCACAF competitions, made him a key piece in Toronto’s offensive setup. After the conclusion of the 2021 MLS season, Mullins decided to retire from professional soccer.
Playing Style and Attributes
Throughout his career, Patrick Mullins was known for his clinical finishing ability, excellent off-the-ball movement, and ability to link up play. A versatile forward, Mullins was capable of playing as a central striker or in a slightly withdrawn role, using his vision and passing ability to set up teammates. His left foot, in particular, was a key asset, as he was capable of scoring goals from tight angles and creating opportunities from set pieces.
While he wasn’t the quickest or most physically dominant player, Mullins’s intelligence on the field more than made up for his lack of raw athleticism. His technical skill, combined with a strong soccer IQ, allowed him to excel in MLS despite the highly competitive nature of the league. His consistency and ability to score in different ways — whether through headers, well-placed shots, or tap-ins — made him a threat in almost any situation.
Accolades and Achievements
Patrick Mullins’s career is filled with accolades and recognition. Some of his most notable honors include:
- Hermann Trophy (2012, 2013) — awarded to the nation’s best collegiate soccer player,
- MLS Rookies of the Year contender (2014) — for his early promise in New England,
- Multiple MLS appearances and goals for various teams, including New York City FC, D.C. United, Columbus Crew SC, and Toronto FC,
- His four-goal performance for D.C. United in 2017, which made him the first player in MLS history to score four goals in a single half.
His contributions to American soccer, especially within the MLS, helped elevate the standard for domestic forwards, inspiring younger players to follow in his footsteps.
Post-Retirement and Legacy
After retiring in 2021, Patrick Mullins has remained involved in the soccer community, contributing his knowledge and experience to the next generation of players. He has worked as a scouting analyst for soccer clubs and has continued his involvement in broadcasting, where he provides analysis on both collegiate and professional soccer. Mullins’s legacy as a successful MLS forward and a two-time Hermann Trophy winner will continue to inspire future generations of soccer players.
His name remains a symbol of consistency, dedication, and hard work in American soccer, showing that even if a player isn’t the flashiest or most physically imposing, intelligence and determination can lead to a successful career at the highest level.
Conclusion
Patrick Mullins’s career in soccer, both at the collegiate and professional levels, has been one marked by consistency, success, and an unwavering commitment to the game. From his rise through the ranks at Jesuit High School in New Orleans to becoming one of the most prolific college players in history, Mullins made his mark as one of the top American forwards of his generation. His time in MLS with several teams, his standout performances in key moments, and his legacy as a two-time Hermann Trophy winner ensure his place in the annals of American soccer history. As his career moves into the next chapter, Mullins’s contributions to the game, both on and off the field, will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
