Less than a day after announcing the signing of running back Shermari Jones, the Houston Gamblers make more roster moves late Tuesday night.
Houston announced on Twitter Tuesday night that they have released running back Devwah Whaley. They also announced the signing of defensive lineman Julian McCleod while also moving him to the inactive list.
McCleod played four seasons in college for Wagner where he finished with 102 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, one pass deflection, and two forced fumbles during that span. He went undrafted in the NFL Draft after he left college where he tried out with the Seattle Seahawks. McCleod did sign with the CFL’s Toronto Argonauts back in 2020.
Whaley has been a member of the Houston Gamblers since last season where he played the role of Mark Thompson’s backup at running back. Last season, Whaley ran 32 times for 72 yards. He also added six catches for 44 yards with the Gamblers. In week one, he ran seven times for 30 yards as T.J. Pledger’s backup.
Part of this move comes as defensive lineman Ikenna Onwuasoanya has been out with a knee injury for Houston. Defensive end Eli Howard was listed as inactive for the New Orleans Breakers game Saturday despite not showing up on the injury report.
Whaley played in week one of the season in Houston’s 29-13 loss to the Michigan Panthers. He was listed as inactive for week two’s game against New Orleans with Mark Thompson moving up as active for the team. Thompson ultimately did not suit up for the game as T.J. Pledger was the only running back who got carries in the game Saturday.
Most likely, McCleod may not be active for a while as he learns the defense. Plus, the team has some depth on the defensive line so he will have to compete for playing time. As for the Whaley’s release, this opens the door for Thompson to fill in as the second back while recently signed Shermari Jones will be the third back on the depth chart. The moves will continue as head coach Curtis Johnson looks for the right guys to help Houston earn their first win of the season.
