The Atlanta Falcons signed D.C. Defenders defensive lineman Devonnsha Maxwell on Wednesday, according to James Larsen.
Devonnsha Maxwell is six foot two and weighs 297 pounds. The 27-year-old from Valdosta, Georgia, was drafted by the D.C. Defenders in the 2026 UFL Draft. In 2026, he made 23 tackles (14 solos, 9 assists), seven tackles for loss, and four sacks in 10 games. In the UFL Playoffs, he made two tackles (2 solos) in two games.
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.
The D.C. Defenders signed Maxwell 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.
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.
