Orange County SC has signed United States youth international Jamir Johnson to his first professional contract ahead of the 2026 USL Championship season. | Photo courtesy Orange County SC
IRVINE, Calif. – Orange County SC announced on Thursday the club had signed winger Jamir Johnson to his first professional contract ahead of the 2026 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.
Johnson joins OCSC from the Philadelphia Union Academy having competed for both the Philadelphia Union II and the United States U-17 Men’s National Team during the 2025 season. The 17-year-old is the latest U.S. youth international to turn pro with the club, following signings such as current OCSC defenders Pedro Guimaraes and Tyson Espy.
“Jamir is a player we’re excited to bring into Orange County SC,” said Peter Nugent, OCSC President of Soccer Operations & General Manager. “He’s already gained valuable experience at the U.S. Youth National Team level, and we believe our environment is the right place for him to continue his development. Jamir has strong potential, and we’re committed to providing him with the platform, support, and pathway to take the next steps in his career.”
Johnson made his professional debut with Union II in 2024, logging 21 appearances in MLS NEXT PRO. In the past campaign recorded two goals and one assist in 171 minutes of action. He was also named to the 2025 MLS Next All-Star Game and scored the game-winning goal for the Eastern Conference on an 86th-minute penalty kick.
At the international level, Johnson has been a regular contributor for the U.S. Youth National Teams. He has earned 20 caps for the USYNT, scoring seven goals in international play, and has participated in multiple national team camps. Johnson was also a member of the U.S. squad at the recent FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he competed alongside Guimaraes, and logged three goals and two assists in nine appearances at the U-17 level.
“Signing my first professional contract with Orange County SC is a huge moment for me and my family,” said Johnson. “This club has built a real pathway for young players to grow, compete, and take the next step towards Europe. At this stage of my development, I know I’m in the right place. OCSC will push me, challenge me, and prepare me for the level I’m working towards every day. It’s only up from here.”