While many MLS clubs won’t publicly admit it, they don’t want their top academy players going to college. It makes the decision to sign players to a Homegrown deal more difficult and results in players signing at an older age. Orlando City’s most recent Homegrown signings show this impact.
Signing Homegrown Players is essential for MLS clubs because of league roster rules. Homegrown Players are cheaper than buying new players and allow clubs more of an overall profit when sold. MLS gives clubs an even greater incentive to sign Homegrown talents as they aren’t treated as regular players when it comes to the salary cap.