The Houston Gamblers have made significant moves in the UFL free agency period, signing tight end Armani Rogers and defensive end Kenny Dyson to strengthen their lineup. These additions come as the team also parted ways with a cornerback recently, highlighting a shift in roster strategy aimed at boosting their competitive edge for the upcoming season.
Details Behind the New Signings
Armani Rogers, a highly athletic tight end, presents an intriguing opportunity for Houston due to his impressive physical capabilities despite a history of injuries. Rogers suffered two Achilles tendon tears in the NFL over the past three years, the most recent occurring in March last year. Now, nearly a year later, he is reportedly ready to resume his football career. Notably, Rogers played quarterback during his college years and holds the unique NCAA record for the longest run by a quarterback—a 99-yard touchdown rush achieved at UNLV. He completed his collegiate career at Ohio, which paved the way for NFL stints with Washington, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Buffalo. If Rogers can maintain his health, he has the potential to become one of the top tight ends in the UFL this year.
Kenny Dyson, the Gamblers’ new defensive end, brings a strong collegiate track record from Bryant University, where he logged 104 tackles, 33.5 tackles for loss, 24.5 sacks (ranking third all-time at Bryant), and forced three fumbles. Dyson signed as an undrafted free agent with the Carolina Panthers in 2024 and saw action in a few games over two seasons, recording two tackles. His arrival bolsters a defensive end room that includes Malik Fisher, Christopher Allen, and Shaka Toney, positioning him as a potential starter for Houston.
Roster Changes and Departures
Amid these additions, the Gamblers have released cornerback LaMareon James, who was a recent UFL draft pick. James, a former TCU player, has NFL experience but the reasons behind the team’s decision to let him go remain unclear. Houston’s head coach Sumlin may be exploring other defensive back options, but no replacement has been signed to date. Other roster moves include the removal of Raheem Blackshear and Gee Scott from Columbus, as well as Jordan Waters from St. Louis, while Willie Drew Jr. joined as a cornerback for DC.
Potential Impact on the Houston Gamblers
Adding players like Armani Rogers and Kenny Dyson signals Houston’s intent to reinforce both offense and defense through free agency. Rogers’ versatility and athleticism could provide a dynamic weapon on offense if his health holds, while Dyson’s proven ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks may improve the Gamblers’ defensive front. The shifts in personnel indicate an evolving strategy as the team aims to contend more vigorously in the UFL this season. Observers and fans will be watching closely to see how these new additions integrate into the lineup and influence the team’s performance moving forward.
REMOVED FROM ROSTER:
COLUMBUS
RB, Raheem Blackshear
TE, Gee ScottST. LOUIS
RB, Jordan WatersADDED TO ROSTER:
DC
CB, Willie Drew Jr.HOUSTON
TE, Armani Rogers— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) February 6, 2026
University of Ohio quarterback Armani Rogers is the second-ever QB to run for a 99-yard touchdown! Look at him go!
(Video via Reddit u/suzukigun4life) pic.twitter.com/nlG2MDpCBF
— SportsBlog.com (@SportsBlog) October 21, 2021
Kenny Dyson Jr picks up a sack to send us to the half.
Bryant leads, 21-13. pic.twitter.com/lUKiwN03Rt
— Bryant Football (@BryantUFootball) September 24, 2022
