On Saturday, the Houston Gamblers made significant moves to their lineup by signing defensive end Kenny Dyson Jr. and releasing defensive back LaMareon James, according to official UFL transaction updates. These changes reflect the team’s strategy to strengthen their defense ahead of the coming season.
Kenny Dyson Jr.: New Addition to the Gamblers’ Defense
Kenny Dyson Jr., a 24-year-old defensive end from Stamford, Connecticut, stands 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighs 235 pounds. After signing as an undrafted free agent with the Carolina Panthers on May 10, 2024, Dyson Jr. appeared in two preseason games, contributing three tackles (two solo and one assist). He played in two regular season games as well, making two tackles.
The Panthers re-signed him in January 2025 but released him in May 2025, which allowed the Houston Gamblers to bring him on board. Dyson Jr. had a notable college career at Bryant University from 2019 to 2023, where he played 44 games and recorded 104 tackles, 24.5 sacks, and 33.5 tackles for loss. His standout 2024 season included career highs with 36 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, nine sacks, as well as multiple pass breakups and forced fumbles.
Throughout his collegiate career, Dyson Jr. earned several honors, including Second Team All-NEC in 2021, First Team All-Big South in 2022, New England Football Writers All-New England Team in 2023, and First Team All-OVC in 2024, highlighting his consistent impact on the field.
Departure of Defensive Back LaMareon James
LaMareon James, a 25-year-old defensive back from Norfolk, Virginia, who was drafted by the Gamblers in the 2026 UFL Draft, has been released from the team. Standing 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing 192 pounds, James’s departure marks a shift in the defensive backfield as the team makes space for fresh talent.
Implications for the Houston Gamblers’ Defensive Strategy
By adding a versatile and proven pass rusher like Kenny Dyson Jr., the Houston Gamblers reinforce their defensive front with experience and collegiate accolades. The release of LaMareon James signals a recalibration of the secondary, possibly to bring in players that better fit the team’s evolving defensive schemes. These roster moves suggest the Gamblers are positioning themselves thoughtfully as they prepare for their upcoming competitions, aiming to enhance their defensive strengths while managing the dynamics of their squad.
REMOVED FROM ROSTER
CB, LaMareon James, TCUADDED TO ROSTER
DC DEFENDERS
WR, Erik Ezukanma, Texas Tech
T, Trey Wedig, IndianaHOUSTON
DE, Kenny Dyson, Bryant UniversityLOUISVILLE
MLB, Nick Kubitz, North Dakota State— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) February 8, 2026
