Houston has a problem, and it appears that their solution might be a quarterback that spring football fans have patiently waited for over the past two years. After injuries to Nolan Henderson, and Taulia Tagovailoa, along with Hunter Dekkers not 100% the Gamblers have opted to sign the versatile John Rhys Plumlee as a reinforcement for the rest of the 2026 season.
Plumlee was recently released by the Pittsburgh Steelers on April 28th. Since coming out of UCF in 2024, he's spent time with the Steelers, Jaguars, and Seahawks spending time on each team's practice squad over the past two seasons. Plumlee whose been extremely versatile during his NFL career has spent time both as a quarterback and wide receiver since leaving college.
Plumlee split time with Orlando Storm QB Matt Corral in 2019 at Ole Miss, before transitioning to wide receiver in 2020/21. In 2022 he'd return to QB at UCF leading the Knights to bowl games during his two seasons there. After coming out of college as a UDFA with the Steelers in 2024, Plumlee was also drafted by the Renegades as a first round pick during the 2024 UFL college draft.
Plumlee appears to be joining the Gamblers as a quarterback moving forward. Currently the status of all three quarterbacks is unknown as all three are dealing with injuries. The Gamblers just released Sam Castronova, an NAIA QB who has been on of Arena Football's most elite quarterbacks since leaving Bethal (TN).
The Gamblers are currently 2-4 going into week seven, scheduled to take on the Orlando Storm at home. With the Gamblers currently looking for continuity and health at the quarterback position, look for Plumlee who was signed quickly to be thrust into action sooner rather than later.