The D.C. Defenders re-signed defensive lineman Devonnsha Maxwell on Friday according to James Larsen.
Devonnsha Maxwell is six foot two and weighs 297 pounds. The 26-year-old from Valdosta, Georgia, signed with the D.C. Defenders on December 4, 2024. In 2025, Maxwell made 20 tackles (9 solos, 11 assists) and three tackles for loss in 10 games. In the playoffs, Maxwell made two tackles (1 solo, 1 assist), helping the team win the UFL Championship over the Michigan Panthers.
The Cincinnati Bengals signed Maxwell as an undrafted free agent on May 12, 2023. In 2023, Maxwell injured his right knee and missed the season. In 2024, he appeared in one preseason game. The Bengals released him on August 19, 2024.
Collegiately, Maxwell played five seasons at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (2018-22) with 163 tackles (92 solos, 71 assists), 45.5 tackles for loss, 28 sacks, four forced fumbles, and one blocked kick in 42 games for the Mocs. He was named a three-time All-American, four-time First Team All-SoCon, Freshman All-American, Sophomore All-American, and the SoCon Defensive Player of the Year.
