The Houston Texans are one of the most beloved teams in the National Football League (NFL). Established in 1999, they have quickly become a fan favorite and their passionate fans can be seen proudly wearing their jerseys around town. The Texans play at NRG Stadium and compete as part of the American Football Conference (AFC) South division. Through hard-fought games against rivals such as Indianapolis Colts or Jacksonville Jaguars, the team has earned its place among top NFL franchises with multiple playoff appearances over recent years. With Bob McNair leading them until his passing in 2018, no doubt that this organization will continue to strive for greatness for many years to come.
1. J.J. Watt
Defensive end
Career
- 3× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2012, 2014, 2015)
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2017)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (2012–2015, 2018)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2014, 2018)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2012–2015, 2018)
- 2× NFL sacks leader (2012, 2015)
- NFL forced fumbles co-leader (2018)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2011)
- Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year (2017)
- Bert Bell Award (2014)
- Lott Trophy (2010)
- First-team All-American (2010)
- First-team All-Big Ten (2010)
Watt is a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and was named Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year in 2017. He has also been selected to five Pro Bowls and two Second Team All-Pro teams.
Watt holds the record for most sacks in a single season with 29 in 2015. J.J. Watt played college football at Central Michigan before being drafted by the Houston Texans in 2011 J.J.
Watt is one of the most decorated and accomplished players in NFL history, having won numerous awards including a Bert Bell Award, Lott Trophy, First-team All-American, and two Pro Bowls.
The Houston Texans superstar has recorded 580 tackles, 111 sacks, 69 passes deflected, and 27 forced fumbles in his impressive career to date.
In 2018 he became the co-leader in Forced Fumbles with New York Giants linebacker Olivier Vernon while also being named an AP first-team All-Pro for the third time in his career - cementing him as one of the greatest defensive players ever to play the game.
J.J. Watt's work ethic was once again on display this season when he missed just one game due to injury despite playing through back surgery earlier in the year which many thought would end his career prematurely.
His determined attitude and unyielding passion for football have seen him become a role model both on and off the field for young athletes all over America.
2. Andre Johnson
Wide receiver
Career
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2008, 2009)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2006, 2012)
- 7× Pro Bowl (2004, 2006, 2008–2010, 2012, 2013)
- 2× NFL receptions leader (2006, 2008)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (2008, 2009)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2003)
- Houston Texans Ring of Honor
- BCS national champion (2001)
- Texas Sports Hall of Fame
- Houston Sports Hall of Fame
Andre Johnson is a six-foot-three-inch wide receiver who has played for the Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, and Tennessee Titans in his NFL career. Andre Johnson was drafted by the Houston Texans with the first pick of the 2003 NFL Draft.
He spent seven seasons with them before joining the Indianapolis Colts in 2015. In 2016 he signed with the Tennessee Titans, where he currently plays. Andre Johnson is one of only two players to total over 15,000 yards receiving in their careers (the other being Jerry Rice).
He also won a Super Bowl ring during his time with the Texans in 2013. Andre Johnson has been recognized as one of football's most talented receivers and is widely considered to be one of its all-time greats; this opinion is shared by many fans and experts alike.
Andre Johnson married Chandra Wilson on October 21st, 2012 - they have two children together: daughter Kensie (2013) and son Ace (2015).
Andre Johnson is a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time NFL receptions leader. Andre Johnson was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2003 and spent his entire 11-year career with them, making him one of the longest-tenured players in team history.
Andre Johnson was an All-American at Texas A&M and led the SEC in receiving yards as a junior before being selected fourth overall by Houston in the 2003 draft.
In 2006, he set new marks for receptions (1,549) and receiving yards (16,848) en route to becoming only the second player ever to lead both categories in a single season; Randy Moss had previously done so twice (2002–03).
Andre Johnson won his first Super Bowl ring with the Texans during their run to victory over Seattle Seahawks in the 2012 championship game; this made him just one win from tying Jerry Rice’s record for most professional championships won by any player at any position throughout NFL history.
Also Played For: madden nfl 15
3. Arian Foster
Running back
Career
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2010, 2012)
- Second-team All-Pro (2011)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2010–2012, 2014)
- 2× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (2010, 2012)
- NFL rushing yards leader (2010)
Arian Foster is a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time AP All-Pro. Arian Foster holds the Texan's franchise record for rushing yards in a single season with 2,424 in 2013.
Injuries have hampered his career somewhat, but he's one of the most decorated running backs in NFL history. He was drafted by the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent in 2009 and has since played for them (2009–2015), Miami Dolphins (2016), and Pittsburgh Steelers (2017).
Foster retired from professional football after playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2017 season. Arian Foster is a two-time first-team all-pro and a four-time pro bowler. In 2012, he set the NFL record for most rushing touchdowns in a season with 54.
He was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2008 as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Tennessee Volunteers Foster has also been involved in charitable work including raising money for Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.
Also Played For: madden nfl 13
4. Matt Schaub
Quarterback
Career
- Atlanta Falcons (2004–2006)
- Houston Texans (2007–2013)
- Oakland Raiders (2014)
- Baltimore Ravens (2015)
- Atlanta Falcons (2016–2020)
Matt Schaub is a former quarterback for the Houston Texans. He played for them from 2007 to 2013 and was released in the offseason of 2014.
Matt Schaub started his career with the Atlanta Falcons, but he was traded in 2006 to the Houston Texans.
In 2009, he led the Texans to their first playoff appearance in franchise history. After playing two more seasons with Houston, Matt Schaub was released by the team in April 2014 and signed with Oakland Raiders shortly after that.
However, he only lasted one season there before being cut again late in 2015 re-joining Houston once more on November 3rd of that year.
Where he retired following an injury-riddled season 4th Quarter against Indianapolis Colts Schaub has been a starting quarterback in the NFL for eight seasons, and during that time he's compiled statistics that would make any player proud.
Schaub is one of only two quarterbacks to throw for over 25,000 yards and finish with an above-average passer rating each season. Matt Schaub is also a proven winner.
He led Baltimore to their first Super Bowl title in over 20 years in 2016, and then took Atlanta to the playoffs this past season as well.
If you're looking for someone who can take your team deep into the postseason, look no further than Matt Schaub – his experience will help your squad get there.
Also Played For: virginia cavaliers football
5. Mario Williams
Outside linebacker
Career
- First-team All-Pro (2014)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2007, 2013)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2008, 2009, 2013, 2014)
- NFL Alumni Defensive Lineman of the Year (2007)
- NC State Wolfpack Jersey No. 9 honored
Mario Williams was drafted by the Houston Texans in the 2006 NFL Draft. He played for the Houston Texans from 2006 to 2011 and then joined the Buffalo Bills in 2012.
In 2015, he signed with Miami Dolphins and helped them reach Super Bowl Lxvi against New England Patriots. Mario Williams retired from professional football after playing for the Miami Dolphins in the 2016 season Mario Williams is a three-time All-Pro and two-time Second Team All-Pro.
He was named NFL Alumni Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2007, after recording 97 tackles and 5 sacks on the season. In 2013, he recorded 98 tackles and 11 sacks for the Buffalo Bills, helping lead them to their first playoff appearance since 1999.
Williams signed with the Houston Texans in 2014 and played well during his first year there, recording 71 tackles and 9 sacks.
Williams has expressed interest in returning to play for the Texans next season; however, it remains to be seen if this will happen or not as he enters into free agency at the end of March 2016.
6. DeAndre Hopkins
Wide receiver
Career
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2017–2019)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2015, 2020)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2015, 2017–2020)
- NFL receiving touchdowns leader (2017)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2013)
- First-team All-ACC (2012)
DeAndre Hopkins is a wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals. He was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2013, but he has played with the Arizona Cardinals since 2020.
DeAndre Hopkins is 6'1" and 212 pounds and he has had success playing in both offense and defense for the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals, respectively. DeAndre Hopkins is known for his explosiveness on the field, as well as his ability to make big plays downfield.
He will be an important part of any team's offense moving forward. DeAndre Hopkins is one of the best receivers in the NFL and has been a top performer for the Texans since joining them in 2013.
He was an All-Pro selection three times, including twice as runner-up for Second Team honors and once as leader of the league's touchdown chart with 71 touchdowns over his career.
Hopkins also enjoyed some success on special teams, being named First Team All-ACC on several occasions while playing both receiver and returner positions throughout his college career at Clemson University.
7. Duane Brown
Tackle
Career
- Houston Texans (2008–2017)
- Seattle Seahawks (2017–2021)
- New York Jets (2022–present)
Brown was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2008 and spent eight seasons with the team before signing with the Seattle Seahawks in 2018. Brown is a veteran of both the NFL and college football, having played for Virginia Tech from 2003 to 2007.
He has amassed over 100 tackles and 10 sacks during his career. In addition to playing on offense, Brown also serves as an assistant coach at his alma mater, Virginia Tech. Brown is one of the best offensive linemen in the NFL and has been a key part of Seattle's success over the past few seasons.
He was an All-Pro selection in 2012 and 2018, as well as being named to four Pro Bowls during that time. Brown is a big guy at 6'5", and 315 pounds, but he moves extremely well for someone his size, making him difficult to block even for some of the most physical defenders in the league.
The Seahawks will be hoping that Brown can maintain his level of play into his thirties after signing a three-year deal extension earlier this year.
Brown may not have had quite such an illustrious career if it wasn't for injuries elsewhere on Seattle's roster throughout much of his tenure with the team so far - a testament to just how important he has proven to be over time.
Also Played For: virginia tech
8. Brian Cushing
Linebacker
Career
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2009)
- Second-team All-Pro (2011)
- Pro Bowl (2009)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2009)
- First-team All-American (2008)
- First-team All-Pac-10 (2008)
- Second-team All-Pac-10 (2006)
Brian Cushing is a linebacker for the Houston Texans. He played at USC and was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2009. Brian Cushing has been with the Houston Texans since 2009, and he has won two Super Bowls (2014, 2017).
Brian Cushes' father, George Sr., also played in the NFL. He was a defensive lineman for the Dallas Cowboys from 1976 to 1988. Brian Cushing married his wife Courtney on October 14th, 2016 in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico after dating for 3 years prior to their marriage.
In 2018, it was announced that Brian had suffered a torn ACL and would miss up to 8 weeks of action due to surgery performed on December 12th by Dr Neal ElAttrache at The Steadman Clinic in Vail CO USA Brian Cushing is a former NFL linebacker who played for the Houston Texans from 2009 to 2020.
He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2009 and 2011, and second-team All-Pro in 2011. In 2008, he was named first-team All-American and first-team all-conference as a junior at USC.
Also Played For: usc trojans football
9. Johnathan Joseph
Cornerback
Career
- Cincinnati Bengals (2006–2010)
- Houston Texans (2011–2019)
- Tennessee Titans (2020)
- Arizona Cardinals (2020)
Joseph was drafted in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. Joseph spent four seasons with the Bengals, playing cornerback and returning punts and kicks.
In 2010, he signed a five-year contract with the New England Patriots, where he played until 2015. After leaving New England, Joseph joined the St Louis Rams in 2016 before being released midway through his season there.
He has since been signed by the Dallas Cowboys and is currently their starting cornerback on defense. Joseph was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He started all 16 games for the Bengals in his rookie season, recording 104 tackles and 2 interceptions.
Joseph played a significant role on both of Cincinnati's playoff teams that year, posting 8 total tackles and an interception in each game. In 2007, Joseph led the team with 133 tackles while also adding 3 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 interception (which he returned for a touchdown).
The following year saw Joseph post career highs across the board: 168 total tackles including 10 sacks and 4 interceptions which he returned for touchdowns (1 rushing & 3 passing).
In 2010, Johnathan Joseph signed as a free agent with Houston Texans where he spent two seasons before being traded to Tennessee Titans midway through the 2012 season.
There he would spend 5 years playing 150+ games per season until his retirement at age 34 due to injuries sustained during the 2018 preseason finale against Indianapolis Colts.
10. DeMeco Ryans
Linebacker
Career
- Defensive Rookie of the Year (2006)
- First-team All-Pro (2007)
- 2× Pro Bowl (2007, 2009)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2006)
- Lott Trophy (2005)
- SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2005)
- Unanimous All-American (2005)
- First-team All-SEC (2005)
DeMeco Ryans is a highly respected defensive coordinator in the NFL. He was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2006 and played for them until 2011. After leaving the Texans, he moved to Philadelphia where he spent two more seasons before retiring in 2015.
Ryans has also been involved with several other coaching positions including Alabama's secondary coach and special teams coordinator in the 2013-2014 season before becoming defensive coordinator of the San Francisco 49ers in the 2015-2016 season.
DeMeco Ryans was a linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers from 2006-2012.
He won First Team All-Pro in 2007 and 2009, as well as being selected to two Pro Bowls. DeMeco Ryans also received recognition as SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 2005 and 2007 and was a unanimous All-American during his senior year at Texas A&M University.
11. Dunta Robinson
Dimeback
Career
- Houston Texans (2004–2009)
- Atlanta Falcons (2010–2012)
- Kansas City Chiefs (2013)
Dunta Robinson is a former cornerback who played for the Atlanta Falcons from 2010-2012. Dunta Robinson was born on April 11, 1982, in Athens, Georgia, and attended Clarke Central High School.
After playing college football at South Carolina, Robinson was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2004 but only spent three seasons with them before joining the Atlanta Falcons.
In his five years with the Falcons, he made 116 tackles and two interceptions while also starting 29 games at the corner.
Robinson signed with the San Francisco 49ers as a free agent in 2013 but retired after just one season due to injury problems and now works as a coaching assistant for his alma mater Clarke Central High School Dunta Robinson was a highly decorated collegiate player, winning both the Thorpe Award and Bednarik Award while at Florida State.
After being drafted in the first round by the Atlanta Falcons in 2004, Robinson made an immediate impact as one of their starting cornerbacks.
Following four seasons with Atlanta (2007-2010), Robinson signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an unrestricted free agent in March of 2012.
In his lone season with KC, Robinson led all NFL corners in interceptions and defensive touchdowns despite playing just 14 games due to injuries sustained early on in the year.
Now 31 years old and coming off a disappointing 2014 season which saw him released by KC after just three months, it will be interesting to see what else Robinson can accomplish on the field next year or beyond.
12. Deshaun Watson
Quarterback
Career
- 3× Pro Bowl (2018–2020)
- NFL passing yards leader (2020)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2017)
- CFP national champion (2016)
- CFP National Championship Offensive MVP (2016)
- Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2016)
- 2× Davey O'Brien Award (2015, 2016)
- 2× Manning Award (2015, 2016)
- 2× ACC Athlete of the Year (2016, 2017)
- ACC Player of the Year (2015)
- ACC Offensive Player of the Year (2015)
- Consensus All-American (2015)
- First-team All-ACC (2015)
- Second-team All-ACC (2016)
Deshaun Watson was born in Gainesville, Georgia on September 14, 1995. He attended Clemson University and played for the Tigers from 2014-2016. In 2017, Deshaun Watson was drafted by the Houston Texans as the 12th overall pick in the NFL Draft.
Since being drafted by Houston, he has started all 16 games for them and led them to a 10-6 record during his rookie season.
In 2018, Watson helped lead the Texans to their first-ever playoff appearance as they beat Tennessee Titans in overtime in week 17 of that season's regular season schedule (the team would later lose to the Jacksonville Jaguars).
As of 2019, Deshaun Watson is still with the Houston Texans and is considered one of their key players going into this year's playoffs. Deshaun Watson is a 3-time Pro Bowler and 2x ACC Offensive Player of the Year.
Deshaun Watson led Clemson to an undefeated season in 2015, before winning the national championship in 2016. In 2017, Watson was named First-team All-American after completing 536 yards with 4 touchdowns and 1 interception against Alabama in the National Championship game.
Also Played For: clemson university, clemson tigers football
13. Jalen Pitre
Safety
Career
- Consensus first-team All-American (2021)
- Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year (2021)
- 2× first-team All-Big 12 (2020, 2021)
Jalen Pitre is a safety for the Houston Texans and was drafted in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Jalen played college football at Baylor, where he was a two-time All-American and won numerous awards, including the Butkus Award as the nation's best linebacker.
He has appeared in 48 games for the Texans over three seasons, making 33 starts and averaging 9 tackles per game. Pitre is married to his high school sweetheart, Kailyn Lowry, with whom he has one child together (a son).
Jalen Pitre was one of the most dominant defenders in college football during his two seasons at Oklahoma. He was a consensus first-team All-American and won Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors as a junior in 2021.
The 6'1", 229-pounder has already made an impact with the Dallas Cowboys, starting all 16 games he’s played since being drafted in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Pitre is known for his elite athleticism, which helped him rack up 139 total tackles, 1 sack, 5 interceptions and 1 forced fumble over his two seasons at OU.
NRL veteran Jason Taumalolo is now Pitre's biggest role model on and off the field; both players share Native Hawaiian heritage. In addition to playing defense for Dallas, Pitre also starred for Team USA at this year’s World Cup of Rugby where he led all tacklers with 20 stops including 2 tries (7 points).
Also Played For: baylor bears
14. Tytus Howard
Tackle
Career
- Houston Texans (2019–present)
Howard was a four-year starter at Alabama State, where he played both offensive tackle and guard. He was drafted by the Texans in 2019 with the 23rd overall pick and made his debut in Week 3 of that season against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Howard has been a regular fixture on Houston's offensive line since then, playing in all 16 games each of the next two seasons before earning All-Pro honors for 2018.
In 2020, Howard started 11 games at left tackle as rookie Deshaun Watson led Houston to its first playoff appearance in 13 years; he also earned AFC Offensive Player of the week recognition for his performance against Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota in that game (which ended with an overtime victory).
Newly appointed head coach Bill O’Brien named Howard starting left tackle this preseason – a position that would have been occupied by Derek Newton.
Newton is not retired after being arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence earlier this year – and it is expected that he will continue to play there throughout the upcoming campaign as well as through 2022 when his contract expires Tytus Howard was drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans.
Howard started all 52 games he played for Houston during his rookie season. He accumulated 57 tackles, one interception, and a forced fumble on defense while also rushing for 907 yards and six touchdowns on 137 carries (5.8 avg.) as a running back in 2018.
As a receiver, Tytus caught 13 passes for 141 yards and two touchdowns en route to being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2019.
15. Chris Myers
Center
Career
- Denver Broncos (2005–2007)
- Houston Texans (2008–2014)
Myers started his NFL career in 2005 with the Baltimore Ravens. He played for the Buffalo Bills from 2006 to 2010 before joining the Chicago Bears in 2011.
Myers has also been a member of the Minnesota Vikings, Miami Dolphins, and Carolina Panthers during his ten-year career. In 2015, he signed with the St Louis Rams but was released at the end of the season after appearing in just five games.
Myers is currently playing for the Oakland Raiders where he has made 43 appearances over two seasons so far Chris Myers is a veteran NFL player who has played for the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos.
He was drafted by the Houston Texans in the fourth round of the 2005 draft and spent four seasons with them before joining the Denver Broncos in 2008.
Myers made his Pro Bowl debut with Houston in 2011 and repeated this feat with Denver two years later. Chris Myers retired from professional football after playing for three more seasons for Houston, having helped them win back-to-back AFC South titles in 2014-2015.
16. Jordan Akins
Tight end
Career
- Houston Texans (2018–2021)
- New York Giants (2022)*
- Houston Texans (2022–present)
Jordan Akins was drafted by the Houston Texans in the 2018 NFL Draft. He played college football at UCF and spent four seasons with the team, including two as a starter.
In his rookie season, Jordan recorded eight receptions for 93 yards and one touchdown. He continued to be an effective receiver during his second year with the Texans, recording 41 catches for 548 yards and three touchdowns en route to being named first-team All-Pro by Football Outsiders.
After two successful seasons with Houston, Jordan signed a five-year contract extension in 2020 which will keep him with the team until 2026 Jordan Akins was drafted by the New York Giants in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
He played college football at Baylor. Jordan Akins is a versatile receiver who can play both on the outside and inside, making him an important part of any offense.
Jordan Akins has shown flashes of brilliance as a rookie and will continue to develop over time. Look for him to be one of the stars of the Giants' offense in 2022 and beyond.
17. Nico Collins
Wide receiver
Career
- Houston Texans (2021–present)
Nico Collins was one of the most highly-rated receivers in the 2017 NFL Draft. He played at Michigan and had an impressive collegiate career, recording 146 catches for 2,722 yards and 23 touchdowns.
The Houston Texans drafted Nico Collins with the 89th overall pick in 2021. It's still unclear what role he will play on the team, but his potential is undeniable.
Nico Collins has a very high ceiling and could be a major contributor to the Houston Texans soon if he pans out as expected.
Nico Collins was drafted by the Houston Texans in the 21st round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Collins played college football at Vanderbilt University and majored in business administration.
In his rookie season with the Texans, he made nine receptions for 127 yards and three touchdowns as a receiver on offense. Collins has been injured since Week 4 of the 2022 NFL Season but is still listed on the active roster with an injured reserve designation.
18. Kris Brown
Placekicker
Career
- Pittsburgh Steelers (1999–2001)
- Houston Texans (2002–2009)
- San Diego Chargers (2010)
- Dallas Cowboys (2010)
Brown was a long-time member of the Houston Texans and is best known for his successful stint as their placekicker. He began his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he made 54 total field goals in three seasons.
Brown then moved on to play for the Houston Texans for six years before retiring in 2009. During his time with the Texans, Brown led the team to two AFC South titles and one Super Bowl appearance (XXXVIII).
After retirement from football, Brown has since pursued other ventures including hosting a sports talk show on Fox Sports Radio and working as an analyst for College Football Playoff games broadcasts on ESPN+.
Brown's accuracy from long range is unrivaled in the NFL and he has kicked three 50+ yard field goals during his career. Brown was drafted by the Chargers in the sixth round of the 2007 draft but spent most of his rookie season on injured reserve with a broken foot.
In 2008, Brown made an instant impact as one of Philip Rivers' favorite targets and finished second on the team with 80 receptions for 1,041 yards and six touchdowns.
The following year saw Brown set new highs with 92 catches for 1,310 yards and 12 touchdowns despite being hampered by an ankle injury that kept him out for five games at the end of the season.
Brown's best campaign yet as he caught 106 passes for 1,493 yards (both career-highs) along with 10 touchdowns to lead all receivers in both categories once again; only Calvin Johnson had more receiving yards that year among qualifying players at their position.
At just 27 years old Kris Brown is still one of – if not THE – premier deep threat in professional football today and looks poised to continue playing at a high level well into his 30s.
19. Steve Slaton
Running back
Career
- Houston Texans (2008–2011)
- Miami Dolphins (2011)
- Toronto Argonauts (2014)
Steve Slaton was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2008 and spent three seasons with the team before joining the Miami Dolphins for one season.
Steve Slaton is a running back who primarily plays on the ground but has also caught passes from time to time.
In his career, Steve Slaton has rushed for over 1,000 yards four times and scored 14 touchdowns. He announced his retirement from professional football in March of this year after spending half a season with the Tennessee Titans.
Outside of football, Steve Slaton is involved in ministry work as he currently serves as an assistant pastor at New Life Church in Houston, Texas where he continues to minister through running clinics and other events Steve Slaton was one of the top running backs in college and the NFL.
He is known for his speed, power, and agility on the field. Slaton has had a successful career with the Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys.
In 2014 he joined the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League (CFL). There are high expectations for him in Canada as well as at home in Texas where he is beloved by fans.
Also Played For: west virginia mountaineers football
20. Derek Stingley Jr.
Defensive back
Career
- CFP national champion (2019)
- Consensus All-American (2019)
- 2× First-team All-SEC (2019, 2020)
Stingley was one of the top cornerbacks in college and was drafted by the Houston Texans in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Stingley has spent his entire career with the Houston Texans, appearing in 122 games and recording 38 interceptions over that time span.
Stingley is known for his lockdown coverage ability and has been a stalwart member of the team since being drafted. Stingley is set to enter his ninth season with the Texans this year and looks likely to continue playing at a high level for many years to come. Derek Stingley Jr.
is a two-time First-team All-SEC selection and national champion who was drafted by the New York Giants in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Stingley Jr.'s highlight season came in 2019 when he led SEC linebackers with 129 total tackles, including 11 for loss and three sacks.
He also forced one fumble and recovered another on defense while adding five interceptions to his stat sheet as a safety. The 22-year-old will look to continue his success in 2020 with an opportunity to start at linebacker for Big Blue after being named as such during offseason workouts.
Also Played For: lsu tigers football
21. Dare Ogunbowale
Running back
Career
- Houston Texans (2017)*
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2017)*
- Washington Redskins (2017)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2018–2019)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (2020–2021)
- Houston Texans (2022–present)
Dare Ogunbowale was a star running back at Marquette and helped the team to two Big East titles. After going undrafted in 2017, Ogunbowale signed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent.
He made his NFL debut in Week 3 of the season and finished with 95 rushing yards on 16 carries against the Indianapolis Colts. In 2018, Ogunbowale had another productive year for Houston, finishing with 744 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 157 carries (4.5 average).
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers acquired Ogunbowale in 2019 after he impressed during their preseason games.
So far this season, he has carried the ball 151 times for 653 yards (5th most in the league) and seven touchdowns – including a 98-yard touchdown run against division rival New Orleans Saints.
Dare Ogunbowale was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He made his professional debut with the Buccaneers later that year, appearing in five games and rushing for 97 yards on 27 carries.
In 2019, he signed a three-year contract extension with Tampa Bay which included an option for 2020.
In 2021, Dare played for Jacksonville before being traded to Houston midway through the season where he finished up his rookie campaign with 63 receptions for 806 yards and six touchdowns across 16 games (16 starts).
Overall, Dare has totaled 511 rushes for 2,832 yards (6th in NFL) and 31 touchdowns during his four-year career.
Also Played For: wisconsin badgers football
22. Kenyon Green
Career
- 2× Consensus All-American (2020, 2021)
- First-team All-SEC (2021)
- Second-team All-SEC (2020)
Kenyon Green was drafted by the Houston Texans in the 2022 NFL Draft. He played college football at Texas A&M and is currently a member of their team. Kenyon has impressive size for a guard and his athleticism will help him on the field.
His rookie season should be an important one as he looks to make an impact for the Texans down the line. Kenyon Green was a consensus All-American and first-team All-SEC player as a redshirt junior in 2021.
He entered the NFL draft following his junior season but did not get drafted until the fifth round (174th overall) by the Houston Texans. In his rookie year, he started all 13 games at right guard for the Texans and helped them make it to Super Bowl 52 where they lost to the New England Patriots 44–28.
The next two years were injury plagued for Green with only seven starts between them before being traded to the Seattle Seahawks prior to the 2018 season where he played in nine games starting eight of them He signed with Buffalo Bills on March 14th, 2019, and is currently their starting R.
23. Brandin Cooks
Wide receiver
Career
- New Orleans Saints (2014–2016)
- New England Patriots (2017)
- Los Angeles Rams (2018–2019)
- Houston Texans (2020–present)
Brandin Cooks was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2014. He played for the New England Patriots from 2017-2018, before signing with the Houston Texans in 2019.
Brandin is a wide receiver who primarily plays on the outside of the field. In his four seasons in the NFL, he has amassed over 1,000 yards receiving each time and scored 10 touchdowns total.
Brandin is married to actress Nia Long and they have one child together (a daughter). Brandin Cooks is a talented wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams. He was drafted by the Rams in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
In his rookie season, Brandin Cooks led all receivers with 1,105 yards and nine touchdowns on 73 receptions. In 2014, he had 111 catches for 1,781 yards and 14 touchdowns en route to earning First-team All-Pro honors from both Sporting News and Pro Football Focus (PFF).
The following year saw him record 101 receptions for 1,554 yards and 12 scores as well as being named an alternate to the Pro Bowl team once again thanks in part to his impressive production against NFC West opponents (seven touchdown grabs).
Brandin Cooks currently has just 36 receptions for 496 yards – averaging only 13 YPG through ten contests played so far this season despite some long reception plays that have resulted in TDs here or there.
Though it's worth noting that LA's struggling offense ranks worst overall out of 32 teams league-wide - scoring 18 points per game on average which would explain why many balls are going astray even when they do find their way into Cooks' hands.
Also Played For: nfl preseason, oregon state beavers
24. Jadeveon Clowney
Linebacker
Career
- Second-team All-Pro (2016)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2016–2018)
- Ted Hendricks Award (2012)
- SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2012)
- 2× First-team All-American (2012, 2013)
- 2× First-team All-SEC (2012, 2013)
- Second-team All-SEC (2011)
- South Carolina Gamecocks No. 7 retired
Clowney has had a decorated career in the NFL, being named to three Pro Bowls and two All-Pro teams. He was drafted first overall by the Houston Texans in 2014 and quickly became one of the league's best defenders.
In 2018 he was traded to the Seattle Seahawks where he continued his impressive play before an injury ended his season prematurely. Clowney is currently playing for the Cleveland Browns and is considered one of their biggest stars.
Jadeveon Clowney is one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history. He has recorded 310 total tackles, 43 sacks, 13 forced fumbles, and 8 fumble recoveries over his career. Clowney was a two-time First-team All-American and won the Ted Hendricks Award in 2012 as college football's best defender.
He was drafted by the Houston Texans with the number 1 overall pick in 2014 and quickly established himself as one of the league's top defenders.
In 2018 he led all NFL defenders with 17 quarterback pressures while also contributing 9 tackles for loss and 2 interceptions from his linebacker position. With an incredible level of dominance on both sides of the ball, Jadeveon Clowney is already cemented into NFL history as one of its greatest defenders ever.
Also Played For: defensive end, south carolina gamecocks football
25. Christian Harris
Career
- Houston Texans (2022–present)
Christian Harris is a linebacker for the Houston Texans in the NFL. He was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and attended high school at Baton Rouge (LA) University.
Christian then played college football at Alabama before being drafted by the Houston Texans in 2022. In his rookie season, he made eight tackles and two sacks while helping the team to make it to the playoffs.
In 2024, Christian had an excellent year with 102 tackles, four sacks, and one interception which helped him win the Defensive Rookie of The Year honors award from the NFLPA MVP awards website Pro Football Focus.
His future looks very bright as he continues to develop as a player both on and off the field Christian Harris was a standout defensive back for the Houston Texans in the 2020 season.
He led his team to a CFP national championship and was named MVP of the playoffs. Christian Harris is an exciting player with terrific ball skills and speed on defense. He has impressed NFL scouts with his play thus far and could be one of the stars of the league in the 2021 and 2022 seasons.
26. Charlie Heck
Career
- Houston Texans (2020–present)
Charlie Heck was a three-star recruit out of Rockhurst High School in Kansas City, Missouri. He originally committed to play for the North Carolina Tar Heels but switched his commitment to the Houston Texans before ever playing a game for UNC.
After redshirting his freshman year at North Carolina, Charlie started all 13 games he played as a sophomore and junior in 2018 and 2019 respectively.
In Week 3 of the 2019 season, while blocking Ezekiel Elliott on an 83-yard touchdown run against the Los Angeles Rams, Heck tore his ACL and was ruled out for the remainder of that season as well as any future seasons with Houston.
Charlie will have surgery later this week to repair his torn ACL and is currently rehabbing in Charlotte under close supervision from Texans trainers during their offseason program preparations for next year's campaign.
Despite being ruled out for most of next season, there is still reason to be optimistic about Charlie Heck's potential return; he has been working hard on rehabilitating his knee since injuring it last fall and should continue progressing smoothly through training camp if everything goes according to plan.
As long as he can stay healthy throughout preseason practices (which won't be easy given how much contact offensive linemen typically participate in), Coach Bill O'Brien plans on using him alongside veterans Seantrel Henderson and Julién Davenport at right tackle when Houston opens its regular season against Indianapolis Colts in Week 1 2020.
If everything goes well then look for him to start slowly at first but eventually work himself into more extensive minutes over time once everyone gets used to seeing him back on the field again.
No matter what happens though - whether he plays one snap or starts every game - we are grateful that Charles "Charlie" Heck chose our team over those from other colleges when making his final decision back in September 2015.
We hope that by sharing this article people may learn something new about one of their favorite players both now and going forward – no matter what happens with regard to Charles "Charlie" Heck’s injury.
He was originally signed by the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent out of Nevada in 2018, but he never made it onto the team's active roster and was released shortly after signing with Houston.
Charlie Heck had a solid rookie season with Houston, starting 15 games at left guard and helping lead them to an 8-8 finish – their first winning record since 2013.
In his second year in the league, Charlie Heck improved even more statistically, appearing in all 16 games (15 starts) and allowing only one sack while grading out as Pro Football Focus' No.
5 overall guard in the league - just behind All-Pro Dallas Cowboys lineman Zack Martin With another strong campaign under his belt this past season, Charlie heck looks like a lock to make the Texans' 53-man roster next year and potentially become part of their long-term offensive line plans moving forward.
27. Tyrann Mathieu
Safety
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LIV)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2015, 2019, 2020)
- Second-team All-Pro (2019)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2015, 2020, 2021)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2013)
- Chuck Bednarik Award (2011)
- SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2011)
- Consensus All-American (2011)
- First-team All-SEC (2011)
Tyrann Mathieu was a three-time first-team all-pro safety for the Arizona Cardinals from 2013 to 2017. In 2018, he signed with the Houston Texans and led the team in interceptions.
With the Chiefs in 2019 and 2020, he recorded two more interceptions each season. The New Orleans Saints claimed him off waivers prior to the 2021 season and have since rewarded him with four Pro Bowl selections and one Super Bowl championship ring as their starting free safety.
Tyrann Mathieu is a two-time Pro Bowler and All-American who was drafted eighth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2010 NFL Draft.
He played college football at LSU where he was twice named SEC Defensive Player of the Year and finished his career with 767 tackles, 104 sacks, 20 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries, 77 passes defended, and 3 defensive touchdowns.
After being traded to the Houston Texans in 2015, Tyrann Mathieu became one of just six players to win an MVP Award (2015), Super Bowl (2017), and World Series championship (2018).
In 2019 he won Second Team All-Pro honors after recording 64 tackles, 10 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and 1 interception while playing for the Los Angeles Rams.
28. Davis Mills
Quarterback
Career
- Houston Texans (2021–present)
Davis Mills is a 24-year-old quarterback who was drafted by the Houston Texans in the 2021 NFL Draft. Davis played college football at Stanford, where he was named a First Team All-American as a senior in 2020.
In his three seasons with the Stanford Cardinal, Davis led them to two Pac-12 championships and one Rose Bowl appearance. After being drafted by the Houston Texans, Davis will now look to make an impact on their team during his rookie season in 2022.
Davis Mills was drafted by the Houston Texans in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He played college football at Appalachian State, where he completed 455 passes for 5,626 yards and 44 touchdowns.
In his rookie season with the Texans, Mills had a passer rating of 112.4 and led all rookies in passing yards and touchdown passes.
His sophomore season was even better as he threw for 3,992 yards and 28 touchdowns while also completing 63 percent of his passes en route to being named an All-Pro selection by PFR magazine.
His third year saw him complete more than 60 percent of his passes for 4,077 yards but only 13 touchdowns as defenses began to gameplan against him.
In his fifth year with Houston, he made headlines when he became just the second quarterback in franchise history (along with Deshaun Watson) to throw for over 5K Yards in each of their first four seasons 7 which helped lead Houston back into playoff contention.
29. David Carr
Quarterback
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XLVI)
- NFL completion percentage leader (2006)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2002)
- Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2001)
- Sammy Baugh Trophy (2001)
- Fresno State Bulldogs No. 8 retired
David Carr was drafted first overall by the Houston Texans in 2002. He played for the Carolina Panthers from 2007-2009 and was sacked a total of 119 times in those three seasons.
In 2010, he signed with the San Francisco 49ers and has been one of their most successful quarterbacks since then. David Carr is married to model Eliza Dushku and they have two children together - daughter Virginia (born 2006) and son Declan (born 2009).
David Carr has also starred in several movies including "The House Bunny" (2008), "Pineapple Express" (2008), "Mars Needs Moms" (2011) and "Max Payne 3" (2012). David Carr was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers with the number 1 overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft.
He started his career as a starter for the 49ers, but struggled to live up to expectations and was traded to the New York Giants before the 2006 season. In 2007, he led the Giants to victory in Super Bowl XLII against his former team, the San Francisco 49ers.
After two more unsuccessful seasons with New York, Carr was released and signed with Oakland Raiders only to be waived after one season due to injury woes once again.
He finally found stability and success when he signed a three-year contract extension with Houston Texans in 2015 ending his playing days at 35 years old following back-to-back 11–5 seasons as their starting quarterback which included earning Pro Bowl recognition each year from 2014-2016 respectively.
30. Owen Daniels
Tight end
Career
- Houston Texans (2006–2013)
- Baltimore Ravens (2014)
- Denver Broncos (2015)
Daniels is a veteran tight end who has played for the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos in his 10-year career. He was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2006, and spent four seasons with them before joining the Denver Broncos in 2013.
Daniels is known for his toughness on offense, as he ranks sixth all-time in receptions (572) and eighth all-time in receiving yards (8,526). In 2015, Daniels signed with the Baltimore Ravens before retiring at the end of that season.
Owen Daniels is a 6-foot-3, 262-pound tight end who was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the 7th round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played for three seasons with the Ravens before signing with the Denver Broncos as a free agent in 2009.
In his eight seasons with Denver, Owen Daniels has been one of the most consistent and durable players at his position, amassing more than 1,000 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns each season while starting all but two games during that time period.
On January 17th, 2017, Owen Daniels announced his retirement from professional football after 13 years in the league.
31. Amari Rodgers
Wide receiver
Career
- Green Bay Packers (2021–2022)
- Houston Texans (2022–present)
Amari Rodgers is a wide receiver for the Houston Texans. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft but only played two seasons with them before being traded to the Houston Texans.
Rodgers has averaged over 1,000 yards per season during his career and scored 11 touchdowns so far in his five-year career. Rodgers is a versatile receiver who has been productive both in the air and on the ground. He led the Texans to their first CFP national championship in 2018 and was named First-team All-ACC that year as well.
Rodgers should continue his success with Houston, who are looking to contend for titles in years to come.
32. Bernard Pollard
Safety
Career
- Kansas City Chiefs (2006–2008)
- Houston Texans (2009–2010)
- Baltimore Ravens (2011–2012)
- Tennessee Titans (2013–2014)
Pollard was a two-time Pro Bowler with the Kansas City Chiefs. Pollard is best known for his interception of Brett Favre in the 2009 NFC Championship Game that helped propel the Chiefs to their first Super Bowl appearance.
Pollard was released by the Chiefs in May 2013 and has not played in an NFL game since December of that year. In January 2014, Pollard signed a one-year contract with the Tennessee Titans and made his return to professional football in August of that year.
At 38 years old, Pollard is still playing at a high level and will be looking to help lead the Titans back to playoff contention this season.
Pollard is a physical linebacker who has had success in the NFL. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2011 and played for them until he was traded to Tennessee Titans in 2013.
Pollard won his first Super Bowl with the Houston Texans in 2014, which was also his final season with the team.
After spending time with both Baltimore and Tennessee, Pollard announced his retirement from football at the end of the 2016 season. Bernard Pollard is currently an analyst on ESPN's Monday Night Football coverage.
33. Ka'imi Fairbairn
Placekicker
Career
- NFL scoring leader (2018)
- Lou Groza Award (2015)
- Consensus All-American (2015)
- Second-team All-Pac-12 (2015)
Ka'imi Fairbairn was born in Hawaii on January 29, 1994. He attended Punahou High School before going to UCLA. Fairbairn was undrafted in the 2016 NFL draft but joined the Houston Texans as a placekicker during the offseason.
In his rookie season with Houston, he made 11 of 17 field goals (63%) and all four extra-point attempts for the team. Ka'imi is married and has two young children; he enjoys surfing and playing video games with his family when he's not practicing or kicking a football in practice sessions.
Ka'imi Fairbairn was one of the most prolific scorers in college football history. He led his team to a Pac-12 Championship and finished second in Heisman voting behind Lamar Jackson. The NFL saw what they had in Fairbairn, selecting him with the 34th overall pick of the 2018 draft.
In his rookie season, he scored 19 touchdowns - tied for third-most in the league - along with five field goals and 131 points on offense.
Ka'imi is coming off an incredible sophomore campaign where he set career highs in touchdowns (25), yards (1,089), and average per touch (8). With continued development on both sides of the ball, it's safe to say that Fairbairn has already made an impact at the professional level.
Ka'imi is a physical player who loves to hit people hard between the numbers; this makes him difficult to take down even when covered by smaller defenders or linebackers.
He also possesses excellent hands and can make some spectacular catches over long distances downfield...making him dangerous anytime he touches the ball.
34. Antionio Smith
Defensive end
Career
- Arizona Cardinals (2004–2008)
- Houston Texans (2009–2013)
- Oakland Raiders (2014)
- Denver Broncos (2015)
- Houston Texans (2016)
Antonio Smith was drafted in the 5th round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. He played for the Cardinals from 2004-2008, before being traded to Houston Texans in 2009.
In 2013, he signed with the Oakland Raiders and has been there since 2014. Antonio Smith is known for his strong defensive play and has recorded over 100 tackles in a season twice (2006 & 2007).
He also won two Super Bowls with Houston (2005 & 2014), making him one of only three players to win two straight title games as a player on each side of the ball (the other two are Joe Montana and Bill Belichick).
Antonio Smith announced his retirement from football after playing thirteen seasons in 2015 due to an Achilles tendon injury sustained during training camp prior to that year's campaign.
After retiring from football, Antonio started working as an analyst on Fox Sports 1 where he provides coverage of both NFL and NCAA Football games Antonio Smith is a former linebacker and current free safety for the Houston Texans.
He was drafted by the New York Jets in 2004 but only played one season with them before being traded to the Denver Broncos. Smith has been a key part of two Super Bowl championships (with the Broncos in 2013 and 2016) as well as four Pro Bowls.
At 6 feet 2 inches tall and 245 pounds, he is an imposing figure on defense who can also help out on special teams if called upon. A hard-hitting player who likes to hit it close to the line of scrimmage, Antonio Smith will be a valuable asset to any team that acquires him this offseason.
Also Played For: oklahoma state university
35. Vonta Leach
Fullback
Career
- Green Bay Packers (2004–2006)
- New Orleans Saints (2006)
- Houston Texans (2006–2010)
- Baltimore Ravens (2011–2013)
Vonta Leach was a fullback for the Houston Texans from 2006-2010. He is currently an analyst with the Baltimore Ravens. Vonta Leach was born on November 6, 1981, in Lumberton, North Carolina.
Vonta played high school football at Rowland (NC) South Robeson and then attended East Carolina where he earned his degree in 2002 as a sociology major.
The Green Bay Packers signed Leach as an undrafted free agent in 2004 and he spent three seasons there before being traded to the New Orleans Saints in 2006.
In 2010, the Houston Texans re-signed him and he stayed with them until 2013 when he was traded to the Baltimore Ravens during the offseason.
Currently, Vonta is an Analyst with the team and also works as a color commentator for their games on CBS Sports Network. Vonta Leach is a former NFL running back who played for the Baltimore Ravens, Houston Texans, and Indianapolis Colts.
He was a three-time first-team All-Pro and led the league in rushing yards twice. In 2012, he won his only Super Bowl title as part of the Ravens' team that defeated the San Francisco 49ers 41–34.
After spending four seasons with the Colts, Leach left the NFL to pursue an opportunity to play rugby in England's Premiership competition.
He has since retired from professional football but remains active in rugby union circles and occasionally provides commentary for American broadcasters covering English matches during international tournaments such as Six Nations Rugby or Aviva Premiership Rugby fixtures.
In addition to his athletic career, Vonta Leach also holds degrees from both Maryland University and Harvard Law School.
36. Laremy Tunsil
Tackle
Career
- 3× Pro Bowl (2019, 2020, 2022)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2016)
- 2× First team All-SEC (2014, 2015)
- Second-team All-SEC (2013)
Laremy Tunsil was drafted 13th overall by the Miami Dolphins in 2016. He played college football at Ole Miss and had a successful career there, winning two national titles (2013, 2015).
After being drafted, he spent time with the Miami Dolphins before being traded to the Houston Texans in 2018. He has been a starter for both teams and is considered one of the best offensive tackles in the league currently.
Laremy Tunsil will be playing in his third Pro Bowl this year. Laremy Tunsil is a former American football offensive lineman who played for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Dolphins in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft.
Tunsil was suspended for four games after violating NCAA rules in 2015 and missed all but one game of his rookie season with an ankle injury. In 2017, he started all 16 games at left tackle and helped lead Miami to their second consecutive championship appearance as they defeated New England in Super Bowl LII.
After being traded to Houston during training camp in 2018, he made 10 starts at right tackle before suffering an ankle injury that ended his season prematurely; he finished with 18 appearances overall on offense.
During free agency in 2019, Tunsil signed a three-year contract with Houston worth $30 million, making him their highest-paid player ever.
Born and raised in Mississippi, Tunsil attended Olive Branch High School where he played defensive end and tight end under then-coach Todd Berry; both players were members of state champion teams.
Also Played For: ole miss rebels football, university of mississippi
37. Phillip Dorsett
Career
- Indianapolis Colts (2015–2016)
- New England Patriots (2017–2019)
- Seattle Seahawks (2020)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (2021)
- Seattle Seahawks (2021)
- Houston Texans (2021–present)
Phillip Dorsett was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2015 and spent two seasons with them before joining the New England Patriots in 2017.
He is best known for his speed and playmaking ability as a receiver, which has resulted in him being named an All-Pro twice.
In 2019 he signed with the Houston Texans, where he will hope to help them reach their first Super Bowl title since 2005. Phillip Dorsett is a wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks.
He was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft and played for that team until 2017 when he signed with the New England Patriots. Dorsett has been a key player for both teams he's played for, recording over 1,000 receiving yards each season.
In 2018, he led all NFL receivers with 18 touchdowns and set an individual record with 594 receiving yards from scrimmage in a single season. At just 27 years old, Phillip Dorsett is still young and has plenty of time to continue his success in the NFL.
38. Brevin Jordan
Tight end
Career
- First-team All-ACC (2019)
- 2× Second-team All-ACC (2018, 2020)
Jordan was a tight end for the Houston Texans in the NFL. He played college football at Miami (FL). In 2021, Jordan was drafted by the Houston Texans in the fifth round with the 147th overall pick.
Jordan has played two seasons with the team and had seven receptions for 74 yards and one touchdown during that time frame. Brevin Jordan is a talented receiver for the Houston Texans. He was named Second-team All-ACC in 2018 and 2019.
His best season came in 2019 when he caught 26 passes for 210 yards and three touchdowns. Jordan will be an important part of the Texan's offense moving forward, and he has all the tools to be successful at the NFL level.
39. Aaron Glenn
Career
- New York Jets (1994–2001)
- Houston Texans (2002–2004)
- Dallas Cowboys (2005–2006)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (2007)
- New Orleans Saints (2008)
Aaron Glenn is a defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. He was born in Humble, Texas, on July 16, 1972. Glenn played football at Nimitz High School in Houston and then attended Texas A&M where he played linebacker for the Aggies from 1991 to 1994.
After college, Glenn spent five seasons with the New York Jets before joining the Houston Texans as their linebackers coach in 2002. In 2007, he became Jacksonville's defensive coordinator and led them to a 9-7 record that season en route to making the playoffs as AFC South Champions.
In 2008, he was hired by new head coach Sean Payton and coached alongside him for two seasons (2008–2010) before moving on to become an assistant head coach/defensive coordinator of the Saints organization under Payton from 2011 until his hiring by Detroit in January of this year.
Aaron Glenn is a former defensive back who played in the NFL for 14 seasons. He was most recently an assistant coach with the Cleveland Browns, where he helped lead the team to two playoff appearances. As a player, Glenn was known for his ball-hawking ability and toughness on defense.
After concluding his playing career, Glenn became a coaching staff member with the Saints and Lions before being appointed as Detroit's defensive coordinator in 2020.
40. Brandon Dunn
Defensive end
Career
- Chicago Bears (2014–2015)
- Houston Texans (2015–2020)
Dunn attended Louisville and played nose tackle for the Cardinals. Dunn was undrafted in 2014 but signed with the Baltimore Ravens as a free agent. Dunn spent two seasons with the Ravens before signing with the Cleveland Browns on March 14th, 2017.
In his four years in the NFL, Dunn has appeared in 46 games and recorded 128 tackles (66 solos), 4 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 1 forced fumble. On September 5th of this year, Dunn entered into an agreement to join the Atlanta Falcons following his release from Cleveland late last month Brandon Dunn was drafted in the seventh round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears.
He started all 16 games for the Bears that season and registered 56 tackles, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery. In 2015, Dunn played for Houston Texans where he registered 54 tackles, 3 sacks, and 4 pass deflections in 14 games.
In 2016, Dunn played 11 games for the San Francisco 49ers before being released on November 12th with an injury settlement after recording 7 tackles and no sacks or interceptions during his time at SF49ERS.
41. Rex Burkhead
Running back
Career
- Cincinnati Bengals (2013–2016)
- New England Patriots (2017–2020)
- Houston Texans (2021–present)
Rex Burkhead is a running back for the Houston Texans. He was drafted by the Patriots in 2013 and has been with them ever since. Rex Burkhead is known for his speed, strength, and elusiveness on the field.
He has also had success as a receiver out of the backfield. In 2018, Rex Burkhead led all NFL running backs in receptions (69). This helped him earn his first Pro Bowl selection.
Beyond football, Rex Burkhead enjoys spending time with family and friends, fishing outdoors, playing golf and watching Kentucky Wildcats basketball games from home courtside.
Rex Burkhead is a versatile running back who has played for the New England Patriots and Houston Texans in the NFL.
He was drafted by the Patriots in 2013 and spent four seasons with them before signing with the Texans in 2018. Rex Burkhead is known for his explosive running style, which has resulted in him scoring 17 rushing touchdowns over his career.
He also has plenty of receiving skills, making him a dangerous player both on offense and defense. While he may not be as flashy as some other players in his position, Burkhead's consistent production makes him one of the most valuable players on any team he plays for.
Also Played For: nebraska cornhuskers football
42. Dameon Pierce
Running back
Career
- Houston Texans (2022–present)
Dameon Pierce is a running back for the Houston Texans in the NFL. He was drafted by them in 2022 and played college football at Florida. Pierce has had an impressive career so far, racking up over 1,000 rushing yards in each of his three seasons with the Texans.
He is known for his speed and elusiveness on the field, as well as his ability to catch passes out of the backfield. Dameon Pierce will be looking to continue this success with the Texans into next season - watch out.
Dameon Pierce has been a key part of the Houston Texans' offense since being drafted in the sixth round in 2020.
He is an elusive runner with speed and agility that allows him to make defenders miss on long runs or break through tackles for short gains.
His biggest asset, however, may be his receiving ability, as he can haul in balls well downfield despite his lack of size. Pierce was injured during Week 15 of the 2022 season and will likely miss most or all of the remainder of the campaign.
43. Christian Kirksey
Career
- Cleveland Browns (2014–2019)
- Green Bay Packers (2020)
- Houston Texans (2021–present)
Christian Kirksey was drafted by the Houston Texans in the 2014 NFL Draft. He played college football at Iowa and has since made an impact with the team, recording 191 tackles and 3 sacks in his four seasons.
In 2018, he helped lead the Browns to a 9-7 record before being traded to Houston where he is currently playing linebacker for the Texans. Christian Kirksey was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
He played college football at Ohio State, where he earned First-team All-America honors as a senior and helped lead his team to an undefeated regular season and national championship game appearance.
Kirksey has been a mainstay for the Browns since being drafted and is one of their most valuable defensive players, recording 726 total tackles, 14.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries (including two returned for touchdowns), 30 pass deflections and six interceptions over his first seven seasons in the league.
Also Played For: the university of iowa, iowa hawkeyes football
44. Jalen Reeves-Maybin
Career
- Detroit Lions (2017–2021)
- Houston Texans (2022–present)
Jalen Reeves-Maybin was drafted by the Houston Texans in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He played college football at Tennessee and had 111 tackles, two sacks, and an interception during his career.
In his rookie year with the Texans, he started nine games and had 63 tackles and one sack. In 2018, Reeves-Maybin missed six games due to a suspension but still managed 33 tackles and one sack on the season.
As of September 2019, he is second on the team in total tackles (64) behind Whitney Mercilus Jr. Jalen Reeves-Maybin was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He played college football at Alabama and has been a part of their defense since his rookie season.
Jalen Reeves-Maybin is known for being an excellent tackler and having great instincts on the field. He also recorded three fumble recoveries as a rookie, helping to lead Detroit to their first playoff appearance in over a decade.
The Lions signed Reeves-Maybin to a five-year contract extension in early 2019, keeping him with the team through 2021.
45. A.J. Cann
Career
- Jacksonville Jaguars (2015–2021)
- Houston Texans (2022–present)
Cann attended Bamberg-Ehrhardt High School in Bamberg, South Carolina. He played college football at South Carolina and was drafted by the Houston Texans in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft.
Cann has appeared in 36 games over four seasons with the Texans, starting 24 of them. In 2017, he signed a three-year contract extension with the team that would keep him through 2020.
Cann is considered to be an excellent run blocker and a solid pass protector on offense; his versatility has helped him earn several starts at different positions throughout his career with Houston.
He is married and has one child; he enjoys spending time outdoors fishing and hunting during free time off from football season A.J. Cann is an excellent all-around football player who can play either tackle or guard positions on the offensive line.
He was a Second-team All-American 2014 and a first-team All-SEC performer in 2014, which showed his talent and ability to dominate defenders on both sides of the ball offensively and defensively.
Cann has started 102 games since entering the NFL in 2015, showing that he is durable and reliable as one of Jacksonville's key starters up front for years to come.
46. Desmond King
Cornerback
Career
- First-team All-Pro (2018)
- Second-team All-Pro (2018)
- Jim Thorpe Award (2015)
- Jack Tatum Award (2015)
- Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year (2015)
- Unanimous First-team All-American (2015)
- Second-team All-American (2016)
- 2× First-team All-Big Ten (2015, 2016)
Desmond King is a cornerback for the Houston Texans. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2017, but only played one season with them before moving to the Tennessee Titans in 2020 and then to the Houston Texans in 2021.
King has been a mainstay of each team he's played for, appearing in at least 16 games every year since joining the NFL. He has recorded over 100 tackles and five interceptions during his career so far and is considered one of the best cornerbacks in the league currently.
Desmond King is a two-time first-team All-American and unanimous first-team all-Big Ten defensive back. He has 337 total tackles, 8.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 5 fumble recoveries in his eight-year NFL career thus far.
As an undrafted rookie out of Iowa in 2015, King helped lead the New England Patriots to their sixth Super Bowl victory that year as he recorded seven interceptions and was named Defensive Player of the Year by both The Sporting News and Sports Illustrated magazine.
In 2016 Desmond signed with the Los Angeles Rams where he made 54 combined tackles (47 solos) before being traded to the Kansas City Chiefs midway through the season for cornerback Marcus Peters who had just won Defensive Rookie of the Year honors from ESPN Magazine.
After one season with KC, King was traded once again this offseason to join his former Patriots teammate Julian Edelman on the Cleveland Browns roster ahead of their 2020 campaign.
47. Ryan Fitzpatrick
Quarterback
Career
- St. Louis Rams (2005–2006)
- Cincinnati Bengals (2007–2008)
- Buffalo Bills (2009–2012)
- Tennessee Titans (2013)
- Houston Texans (2014)
- New York Jets (2015–2016)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2017–2018)
- Miami Dolphins (2019–2020)
- Washington Football Team (2021)
Fitzpatrick was drafted in the seventh round by the St. Louis Rams in 2005 and played for them for two seasons before moving on to Cincinnati. Fitzpatrick had a very successful career with the Bills, Titans, Jets, and Texans before signing with Miami this offseason.
As one of the most experienced quarterbacks in the league, Fitzpatrick is expected to be a big part of Miami’s offense next season. Fitzpatrick started his NFL career with the New York Jets in 2009. In 2018, Fitzpatrick signed with the Washington Redskins and finished out the season there.
Ryan is a three-time Ivy League Champion and was named Player of the Year at Yale in 2004. His 223 touchdowns are second most all-time behind only Dan Marino's 248 touchdown passes during his career with Miami Dolphins (1984-89).
Fitzpatrick led both teams he played for to playoff appearances in 2010 as a member of the Jets, and again in 2017 when he helped lead Tennessee to their first postseason appearance since 2007.
48. Christian Covington
Nose tackle
Career
- Houston Texans (2015–2018)
- Dallas Cowboys (2019)
- Denver Broncos (2020)*
- Cincinnati Bengals (2020)
- Los Angeles Chargers (2021–present)
Christian Covington was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia. He attended Rice University before transferring to the Houston Texans in 2015.
Covington made his NFL debut with the Dallas Cowboys in 2019 and has played for the Houston Texans (2015–2018) and Los Angeles Chargers (2019).
Christian is a versatile defensive end who can play both standing up as well as on the ground. In 2018, he recorded 8 sacks and 2 forced fumbles while playing for Houston Texans and was named to the 2018 Pro Bowl team as an alternate player.
Christian is signed with the Los Angeles Chargers until 2021 and looks set to have a long career in professional football In three seasons at Cincinnati, Christian Covington has shown himself to be a stalwart defender.
He was an All-C-USA selection in 2013 and 2018 and is coming off of his best season as a pro in 2020 when he finished with 74 tackles, 9.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and two pass deflections.
With the departure of Vontaze Burfict (to Kansas City) and Nick Vigil (free agency), Covington will have to step up even more if the Bengals want to make it back to the playoffs this year.
49. Jamie Sharper
Career
- Baltimore Ravens (1997–2001)
- Houston Texans (2002–2004)
- Seattle Seahawks (2005)
Jamie Sharper played linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens from 1997 to 2001. He then spent two years with the Houston Texans before joining Seattle Seahawks in 2005 as a defensive assistant coach.
In 2007, Jamie was named linebackers coach of the DC Defenders and has held that position since 2016. As special teams coordinator, he oversees all aspects of DC's kicking and punting units along with coaching the team’s returners on kickoffs and punts.
Jamie is married with four children and resides in Richmond, Virginia. Sharper was a key part of the New Orleans Saints' victory in Super Bowl XLIV, making eight tackles and sacking Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner twice.
Sharper has also been an important player for the Los Angeles Rams over the past few seasons, recording more than 100 tackles each season from 2006-2008; he helped lead L.A. to its first division title since 2003 in 2008.
In 2009, however, Sharper was suspended following his arrest on rape charges; although he eventually reached a plea deal and served just over two years behind bars, this event effectively ended his NFL career at that point.
Returning to football later in life after serving prison time inspired Jamie Sharper to start The JamieSharPER Foundation (JSHF).
Which provides support and education for young people who have experienced or are experiencing hardships such as poverty or abuse within their families or homes.
Jamie is one of those rare guys who not only played at an elite level but did it with integrity," said Sean Payton when announcing Sharper's selection as team captain prior to Super Bowl XLIV – indeed throughout his long career there have been very few blemishes on what has been a sterling reputation both on and off the field.
50. Amobi Okoye
Defensive tackle
Career
- Houston Texans (2007–2010)
- Chicago Bears (2011)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2012)*
- Chicago Bears (2012)
- Dallas Cowboys (2014)
- Saskatchewan Roughriders (2016)*
Okoye was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2007 and made an immediate impact as a defensive lineman. He played for the Texans until 2010 when he signed with the Chicago Bears.
Okoye has since become one of the most respected players at his position, playing on four teams over six seasons before retiring in 2016. In total, Okoye has recorded 94 tackles and seven sacks in his career.
Now 35 years old, Okoye is still involved in football coaching and working to raise awareness about mental health issues among athletes Amobi Okoye was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
He played for Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys before signing with Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2016.
Amobi is a dominant defensive tackle who has been able to make an impact on multiple teams over his career. His athleticism, strength, and size have made him one of the most feared defenders in the NFL.
Amobi will be looking to continue his success with Saskatchewan this season and help them compete for a Grey Cup championship.
51. Jeff Driskel
Quarterback
Career
- San Francisco 49ers (2016)*
- Cincinnati Bengals (2016–2018)
- Detroit Lions (2019)
- Denver Broncos (2020)
- Houston Texans (2021–present)
Jeff Driskel was born in Oviedo, Florida on April 23, 1993. He attended Hagerty High School before playing college football in Florida from 2011-2014. Driskel was drafted by the 49ers in 2016 but only played for them for one season before moving to the Bengals in 2017.
In 2018 he signed with the Lions and has been their starting quarterback ever since. Jeff Driskel was a 2-star quarterback recruit out of high school and didn't receive many Division I offers. He ended up choosing Louisiana Tech over Alabama, Auburn, Texas A&M, and others.
Driskel redshirted his freshman year at Louisiana Tech before starting the next two seasons as the starter. In those two years, he completed 59% of his passes for 3,955 yards with 24 touchdowns and 16 interceptions.
After sitting out the 2015 season due to NCAA transfer rules, Driskel started all 13 games for Louisiana Tech in 2016 and led them to an undefeated regular season record (11–0) en route to their first C-USA championship since 2009.
The Bulldogs went on to lose 49-38 in the second round of the FBS playoffs against Western Kentucky but still earned a spot in the College Football Playoff as a #4 seed thanks to victories over Florida State (#1 seed), Georgia (#3) and Oklahoma.
Despite being one win away from playing for a national title, injuries forced Jeff Driskel into retirement after just three seasons as a collegiate starter (22 starts). Since retiring from football, Jeff has been working as an NFL analyst on FOX Sports 1 while also doing some college recruiting work.
Now 27 years old, Jeff is considered by most experts to be one of if not THE best dual-threat quarterbacks in history – able or capable of running with any receiver no matter how talented they may be; passing with accuracy downfield even under pressure; making plays with his feet either outside or inside zone runs etcetera.
Also Played For: louisiana tech university football
Final Words
The Houston Texans are one of the most beloved teams in the National Football League (NFL). Established in 2002, the team has since won two AFC South Division championships and made it to four consecutive playoffs.
One of the best players to ever play for the Texans is quarterback Deshaun Watson. He was drafted with first overall pick by Houston in 2017 and quickly became a fan favorite due to his impressive stats and exciting plays on the field.
Other great players that have played for Houston include running back Arian Foster, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, cornerback Johnathan Joseph, and offensive lineman Duane Brown.
