The Houston Gamblers continue to make moves to bolster their defense. DB Justin Ford has officially signed with the team, having been a part of the USFL College Draft back in February.
#Gamblers signed former Montana Grizzlies CB Justin Ford, who was selected during the second round in the 2023 #USFL Collegiate Draft.
— USFL Center (@USFLCenter) September 14, 2023
Justin Ford was selected by the Houston Gamblers with their second pick in the USFL college draft. He ultimately decided not to sign with the team, having declared for the NFL draft.
Ford garnered some interest from the Pittsburgh Steelers prior to the draft, but was never picked up. After that, he ended up spending a bit of time with the Baltimore Ravens during their mini-camp this spring.
Throughout his college career, Justin Ford was a playmaker. He began his journey with Golden West Junior College, playing two seasons from 2017-2018. During that stint, he posted 41 tackles and four interceptions for the team in 20 games.
From there, Ford transferred to Louisville. In 2019, he was active for three games, but did not record any statistics.
Montana Justin Ford is an intriguing player with good size. Great ball skills and had 9 INT! Another big season should have his name buzzing! pic.twitter.com/sPpw7MbmtA
— Robert Cardona (@CARDONAFAM29) May 4, 2022
Justin Ford eventually moved to Montana, where he saw his best action yet. In 2020, he only played in two games, but racked up nine tackles.
Then, Ford broke out during the 2021 season. He finished the year with 41 tackles, one sack, and a jaw-dropping nine interceptions in just 13 games (10 starts). This outstanding effort earned him multiple honors, including: Unanimous First Team All-American CB, Big Sky Newcomer of the Year, & First Team All-Big Sky CB.
#FCSThrowback Justin Ford (@jacosse_) with a clutch Pick Six against Eastern Washington to send Montana (@MontanaGrizFB) to the Quarterfinals of the FCS Playoffs 🔥 Ford ended the season with 9 INTS & 3 Defensive TDs pic.twitter.com/ZMnPDx4iD8
— The Bluebloods (@The__Bluebloods) August 7, 2022
In 2022, Ford had another solid outing, with 34 total tackles and two interceptions. Following his excellent collegiate career, Justin will look to kickstart his professional tenure with the Houston Gamblers.
Final Thoughts
The Gamblers’ new GM, Lionel Vital, has been aggressively signing defensive playmakers this offseason, including:
DB Richard Bowens III
DB Jai Nunn-Liddell
CB Elijah Rodgers
Houston has also signed a couple of offensive and special teams pieces. Center Jakari Robinson signed a few weeks ago, alongside kicker Gabe Brkic and long snapper Logan Klusman.
After a 5-5 record in 2023 that did not result in a postseason berth, the Houston Gamblers will look to rewrite their story in 2024 behind a new and improved roster. Currently, the team sits at 61 players. They will have to cut down to 58 before training camp begins.
What are your thoughts on the Houston Gamblers signing DB Justin Ford? Which USFL prospects should they pursue? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
