As the Tiger-Cats slowly approach the 2025 CFL Free Agency period, Hamilton and general manager Ted Goveia are working to maintain a strong defensive secondary. Last week, the Tiger-Cats started the new year by re-working the contracts of defensive backs Stavros Katsantonis and Jamal Peters. This week, the Tiger-Cats signed an additional defensive back; according to the CFL Transactions list, Hamilton signed an American defensive back, Josh DeBerry.

DeBerry is a 5’11”, 184-pound defensive back from Warren, Michigan. In 2024, DeBerry spent some of the NFL season with the Dallas Cowboys. Coming to the CFL is an opportunity for DeBerry to prove that he has what it takes to make an impact at the professional level. For DeBerry, joining a strong defensive backfield with several veterans should make for an easier transition to football north of the border.

Prior to signing with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent, DeBerry played college football at Texas A&M in 2023 after transferring from Boston College, where he played in 39 games for the Eagles from 2019 until 2022. While at Boston College, DeBerry recorded four interceptions, 116 solo tackles, 56 assisted tackles, one quarterback sack, three forced fumbles, and two recovered fumbles.

After transferring to Texas A&M, DeBerry played 10 games during the 2023 season. While playing for the Aggies, DeBerry registered two interceptions, 31 solo tackles, eight assisted tackles, and one quarterback sack. DeBerry’s experience from competing in the SEC and spending time with the Dallas Cowboys should give the young defensive back an opportunity to earn a spot on the Tiger-Cats 2025 roster.

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