The Houston Texans are poised to bolster their defensive backfield by bringing in cornerback Damon Arnette, a former first-round pick by the Las Vegas Raiders who is making a comeback after three years away from the NFL. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Arnette is expected to sign with the Texans following a workout that impressed the team.
Arnette, 29, spent last season with the Houston Roughnecks of the United Football League (UFL), recording 18 tackles, a sack, and a pick-six. His presence in Houston’s backyard could provide a smooth transition as he aims to prove he can still compete at the NFL level.
Houston Texans Set to Add Former Las Vegas Raiders First-Round Pick Damon Arnette to Secondary
Drafted No. 19 overall by the Raiders in 2020 after a strong collegiate career at Ohio State—where he notched 140 tackles and five interceptions—Arnette’s early NFL tenure was hampered by injuries and off-field issues. A thumb injury limited him to nine games as a rookie, and a groin injury sidelined him in 2022. Complications off the field, including a viral video involving a firearm, led to his release by Las Vegas in 2021.
After a brief stint with the Miami Dolphins practice squad in 2021 and two years away from professional football, Arnette’s time with the Roughnecks revived his career. The Texans currently boast a secondary led by Derek Stingley Jr., but Arnette will face stiff competition from both starters and backups in training camp.
While the former Raider has only 13 NFL regular-season games to his name, the Texans are willing to give him a chance to earn a roster spot. Arnette was a controversial first-round pick but undeniably possesses talent. The upcoming preseason will be critical for Arnette to show whether he can fulfill that potential with Houston.