They were playing as charter members of the XFL, one of eight teams to compete in the league for the 2020 season.

The Defenders played their home games at Audi Field and were led by head coach Pep Hamilton.

During the first two weeks of the XFL season, the Defenders got off to a hot start, beating the Seattle Dragons in the first XFL game by a score of 31–19 at home, and dominating the New York Guardians at home 27–0.

The Defenders were able to rebound in week 5 thanks to Tyree Jackson, winning against the St. Louis Battlehawks at home 15-6 and improving their record to 3-2 before the XFL officially suspended operations 12 days later.

[6] at Dignity Health Sports Park, Los Angeles, CA