Just days after being let go by the Pittsburgh Steelers, former quarterback and receiver John Rhys Plumlee has found a new home—this time in the United Football League. The versatile athlete, known for his adaptability on the field, was released by the Steelers following the 2026 NFL Draft, a move that came after the team selected quarterback Drew Allar last month. Rather than waiting for another NFL opportunity during the offseason, Plumlee is taking a bold step to keep his career alive.
The UFL officially announced via X that Plumlee has signed with the Houston Gamblers, joining the team just in time for Week 7. This marks a fresh start for a player who has already worn multiple hats in his professional journey.
The Gamblers, currently sitting at a 2-4 record, are coming off a tough loss to the Columbus Aviators—a team led by offensive coordinator Todd Haley. For Steelers fans, Haley's name might ring a bell; he served as Pittsburgh's offensive coordinator for five seasons, adding a layer of familiarity to this matchup.
Houston's quarterback situation has been anything but stable this season. Starter Nolan Henderson only stepped in after an injury to Hunter Dekkers, and Henderson himself has since gone down. This opens the door for Plumlee, who is eager to prove that his true position is under center—not as a gadget player or wide receiver.
Plumlee's path to the UFL has been anything but straightforward. After going undrafted in 2024, he joined the Steelers and also spent time with the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Seattle Seahawks. Now, with a chance to play quarterback again, he's aiming to recapture the form that made him a dynamic college player. If he can showcase that grit and versatility, it might be enough to put him back on NFL radars before training camps open next summer.
What makes Plumlee stand out is his ability to improvise when the pocket collapses. He's a gritty player with a history of playing through pain—back in 2019, while at Ole Miss, he suffered a knee injury against Texas A&M but kept battling on the field. He also brings solid ball placement and isn't afraid to sacrifice his body as a physical runner. At the 2023 Big 12 Pro Day, he clocked a 4.51-second 40-yard dash, showing off the speed that makes him a threat in any offensive scheme.
For fans who love a good underdog story, Plumlee's next chapter is one to watch. Whether he's scrambling for a first down or delivering a pinpoint pass, this UFL opportunity could be the stepping stone he needs to make a comeback.