Houston Gamblers

Houston Gamblers Sign DL Julian McCleod, Release RB Devwah Whaley

by
Anthony Miller
April 26, 2023

Julian McCleod - USFL News Hub — Photo via wagnerathletics.com

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.

Free Agent Signing:
DL Julian McCleod, Wagner

Released:
RB Devwah Whaley

Transferred Player to Inactive Roster:
DL Julian McCleod
— Houston Gamblers (@USFLGamblers) April 26, 2023

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.

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Anthony Miller

Credentialed Reporter/Writer for XFL NewsHub, Writer for CFL NewsHub, Reporter/Writer for USFL NewsHub.

1 Comment

Ken Granito

April 27, 2023 at 6:13 pm

There have been some players that have been cut by the XFL and USFL that really weren’t good enough players for these leagues, but there have also been some players that might be able to play in this league, but have found themselves without a team. I felt La’Michael Pettway was one of these guys and he has been picked up by the Stallions. As we continue the process of training players and players learning and showing their skills, there will be players that have proven themselves. Players like Devwah Whaley, Paul Terry and Clayton Thorson have proven they can play, but are not on a team. I believe players like these will become the depth of this league as injuries and expansion gives a place for players such as these. The alt league footprint is growing. What will either allow this to keep going or not are the fans that will either attend games or watch them at home. Either will help the league grow. Give it a chance and watch one game. Maybe you will see something you can relate with and enjoy the games

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