DC Defenders Wide Receiver Cornell Powell Named 2026 UFL Sportsman of the Year
The United Football League has announced that DC Defenders wide receiver Cornell Powell has been named the 2026 UFL Sportsman of the Year.
Powell received the honor during the UFL Awards presented by Dynasty Financial Partners as part of United Bowl week festivities in Washington, D.C.
The UFL Sportsman of the Year Award recognizes the player who best exemplifies character, leadership, professionalism, and service beyond the field of play. The award honors individuals who make a meaningful impact in their communities while serving as positive role models for teammates, fans, and future generations.
After being selected as the DC Defenders’ nominee for the award at the conclusion of the regular season, Powell reflected on the significance of the recognition.
“Being nominated for the UFL Sportsman of the Year Award is an incredible honor and a reflection of something far greater than individual achievement,” said Powell. “While success on the field is meaningful, the true impact of this game lies in the opportunities it provides to serve, inspire, and uplift others. I believe God granted me this platform to reach back and create opportunities for the next generation.”
Powell’s dedication to community service began long before his professional football career. In 2021, he founded The Powell Project, an organization focused on improving the lives of families in his hometown of Greenville, North Carolina through youth development programs, mentorship opportunities, and community outreach initiatives.
Through The Powell Project, Powell has organized and supported numerous charitable efforts, including youth football camps, mentorship programs, back-to-school drives, Thanksgiving turkey distributions, Christmas toy drives, breast cancer awareness campaigns, and autism awareness initiatives.
His commitment to helping others has extended beyond his hometown. Throughout his time in the UFL, Powell has consistently volunteered for community events and charitable appearances near the league’s Arlington, Texas hub, often donating his personal time during off days to support local causes.
Within the Defenders organization, Powell has earned widespread respect as a leader and mentor. Teammates and coaches have praised his professionalism, humility, and willingness to support younger players both on and off the field.
While his impact away from football played a major role in earning the award, Powell also enjoyed a productive season on the field.
The veteran receiver led the DC Defenders in receiving during the 2026 regular season, recording 34 receptions for 491 yards and one touchdown. His 491 receiving yards ranked sixth in the UFL, making him one of the league’s most dependable offensive weapons throughout the year.
Powell’s combination of leadership, service, and performance embodies the values the Sportsman of the Year Award was created to recognize.
By making a difference both in the community and on the field, Powell has established himself as one of the UFL’s most respected players and a model representative of the league’s commitment to character, service, and excellence.
The 2026 UFL Sportsman of the Year Award adds another milestone to Powell’s career and highlights the positive influence professional athletes can have far beyond the game itself.
Source: UFL
Photo: Wikipedia Commons
