WINNIPEG, MB – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have announced the addition of two defensive backs to their practice roster: Demerio Houston and Russell Dandy.
Houston (5’11”, 170 lbs), a product of Southern University and native of Shelby, NC, returns to Winnipeg after spending the 2024 season with the Calgary Stampeders. From 2021 to 2023, Houston played in 30 games for the Blue Bombers — starting 26 — and recorded 84 defensive tackles, nine interceptions, and one pick-six. He was part of the 2021 Grey Cup-winning squad and earned both West Division and CFL All-Star honors in 2023 before signing with Calgary as a free agent. Last season, he led the Stampeders with 74 tackles and five interceptions, adding a sack to his stat line.
Dandy (6’0”, 170 lbs), out of Eastern Illinois and originally from Hinesville, GA, rejoins the Blue Bombers after being released at the end of training camp. He also participated in Winnipeg’s 2024 camp. Dandy began his college career at Butte College (2018–19) before transferring to Eastern Illinois (2021–23), where he earned First Team All-Big South honors in his senior year. He led the FCS in passes defended with 19 and added one interception. Prior to joining the CFL, he attended rookie minicamp with the New York Jets in 2024.
Additionally, the Blue Bombers have released American running back Quinton Cooley from the practice roster.
