As the UFL hits the halfway point of the 2026 season, all eight teams are staying active in making changes to their roster, with the Houston Gamblers getting in on the action.
According to the UFL Communication department, the Gamblers made the decision to release starting cornerback Carlton Johnson and replace him with cornerback Ra’Mello Dotson. In four starts this season, Johnson racked up 11 tackles, one sack, and one interception after spending last season with the Renegades.
Dotson was originally selected by the Gamblers in the UFL Draft, but retired in the middle of training camp. He spent time with the Las Vegas Raiders and the Carolina Panthers last year before the NFL season started.
Houston Gamblers made a quick change at cornerback
Johnson's release is quite the surprise, as he had been playing pretty well to start the season despite some inconsistencies in the Gamblers' secondary. What made Johnson a good fit for the Gamblers is that he knew defensive coordinator Marvin Sanders' scheme from their time together in Arlington last year.
This leaves the Gamblers' cornerback room in an interesting spot moving forward, as they will most likely look at Damon Arnette and either B.J. Mayes or Kary Vincent Jr. as the other starter at cornerback. Dotson may not play right away, as he could be more of a special-teams player, but he could see more playing time in the next few weeks.
Houston's secondary has seen a lot of recent changes early in the season, as they let go of safety Markel Roby after Week 1. Roby was replaced by Major Burns, which turned out to be a good move, as Burns is tied for second in the league with 2 interceptions.
The Gamblers are hoping this is the spark they have been needing on defense after a rough 1-3 start to the season, as they shift the focus to playing the Columbus Aviators in Week 5.