Jacksonville Sharks defensive lineman Demeco Roland
(Jacksonville Sharks)

JACKSONVILLE, FL - The Jacksonville Sharks have announced the re-signing of defensive tackle Demeco Roland for the 2027 season, bringing back a powerful presence and proven playmaker to the Sharks' defensive front.

Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 325 pounds, Roland returns to Jacksonville looking to build on a productive first season with the Sharks. During the 2026 campaign, Roland recorded 18 tackles, 3.5 sacks and four tackles for loss, establishing himself as a disruptive force along the defensive line. His return adds valuable experience, size and continuity to Jacksonville's defense heading into the 2027 season.

"Demeco established himself as one of the elite nose guards in the IFL last season," Head Coach Jason Gibson said. "Everything on defense starts in the middle, and getting him re-signed was a priority for us moving forward."

Before joining the Sharks, Roland played collegiately at Southern Miss, where he appeared in 23 games over two seasons. In 2023, he played in all 12 games, recording 23 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, half a sack and three quarterback pressures.

During his final season in 2024, Roland continued to make an impact, totaling 24 tackles, four tackles for loss, one sack and a fumble recovery. He finished his Southern Miss career with 47 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.

A native of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Roland began his collegiate career at Hutchinson Community College, where he helped the program capture the 2020 NJCAA National Championship. Across 22 games, he recorded 39 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks before transferring to Southern Miss.

Following his collegiate career, Roland signed with the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in May 2025 before continuing his professional career with the Jacksonville Sharks.

With Roland back in the trenches, Jacksonville retains a physical and experienced presence in the middle of its defensive front. His ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and disrupt plays in the backfield will be a valuable asset as the Sharks prepare for the 2027 season.

• Sharks Re-Sign Defensive Lineman Demeco Roland for 2027 Season - Jacksonville Sharks

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