Zac McGraw
POT
Center Back
Controlled Center Back
Jun 8, 1997 (29)
6'4"
205 lb
Undergoes another back surgery
McGraw (back) underwent another back surgery Wednesday, according to his Instagram, per Adam Susman of The Timber Review. The procedure likely rules him out for the remainder of the season.
Analysis: McGraw is facing a long-term absence after undergoing a second back operation, having been unable to play this season following the lumbar spine surgery he had Feb. 6, which carried a timeline of roughly four months. No timeline has been given this time, but with the regular season ending Nov. 7, he is expected to miss the remainder of the campaign.
Heads back to sidelines
McGraw remains inactive due to a back issue, the MLS reported Friday.
Analysis: McGraw has likely suffered a relapse of his previous back injury after seeing no MLS action since March 2025. This is an unfortunate development for the defender, who appeared to be close to returning following his presence on the bench in a few Leagues Cup games. Still, the severity of the setback remains in doubt ahead of future weeks. His continued absence won't alter Finn Surman's and Kamal Miller's places in the central defensive positions.
Makes bench in return
McGraw (back) is back fit and made the bench for Sunday's 3-1 Leagues Cup loss to Club America, according to the club.
Analysis: McGraw had been nearing a return to full workload after taking part in squad drills, following an extended absence tied to back surgery that had kept him out of MLS action for over a year. His inclusion on the matchday squad now confirms his recovery is complete, though Finn Surman figure to remain Portland's top center back option as he works his way back into contention for regular minutes.
Present in team training
McGraw (back) took part in some drills with the squad during Thursday's practice, Adam Susman of The Timber Review reports.
Analysis: McGraw is nearing a return to full workload after missing the first eight games of the season while recovering from back surgery. However, he hasn't played in an MLS match in over a year, so it could take some more time for him to get significant playing time. Until then, Finn Surman and Alex Bonetig will remain the team's top center-back options.
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