The Colorado Rapids have promoted forward Mamadou Billo Diop from their developmental team to a first-team contract that will keep him with the club through the 2027-28 season.
The agreement also contains team options for the 2028-29 and 2029-30 campaigns.
“We’re excited to add Billo to our first-team group,” Rapids Sporting Director Fran Taylor said. “He’s earned this opportunity through his production, and impact at the Next Pro Level. We believe he has the ability to impact the game at the first team level.”
The Rapids chose Diop with the sixth overall selection in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft.
The teenage striker from Senegal concluded the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro campaign with an impressive tally of 14 goals and two assists while playing 1,614 minutes for Colorado Rapids 2. His outstanding performance earned him both the team’s Player of the Year and Golden Boot honors, and he played a key role in helping the squad reach the Western Conference Final and secure their inaugural MLS NEXT Pro Cup appearance.
“Billo has impressed in his training exposure with the 1st team,” Rapids Head Coach Matt Wells said. “He really caught the eye in the final pre-season fixture, combining his physicality with moments of high technical quality. He arrives in good positions in the penalty box and is becoming more decisive with each week.”
