Racing Louisville FC announced the extension Tuesday of midfielder Jaelin Howell’s contract through the 2025 season.

The No. 2 pick in the 2022 draft, Howell originally signed a three-year deal through 2024.

She started every game as a rookie last season and finished 13th among NWSL field players in minutes (1,902).

“I’m blessed and excited to be able to extend my contract after my first year at Racing,” said Howell, 23. “I think this team and club have a lot of potential to do great things, and I can’t wait to be a part of that. I’m going to give everything I have to help the team succeed and hopefully turn Racing into a championship organization. I’m also super thankful for my teammates and coaching staff helping me in my rookie season.”

A two-time national champion and national player of the year at Florida State, Howell stepped into Louisville’s setup as its top defensive midfielder.

Howell finished the season second in the league in duels won (173), sixth in fouls won (37) and seventh in interceptions (38). She recorded two assists for the year and scored her first professional goal in Racing’s NWSL Challenge Cup finale at Houston.

“We are so happy to extend Jaelin’s contract,” Racing coach Kim Bjorkegren said. “She had a great first season as a professional, and I know she will work hard to improve on that this year. She is a key player for us and a team leader with a great personality.”

–Field Level Media