Houston finalized contracts with six rookies yesterday, including their top pick from this year’s draft.
Kamari Lassiter, the Texans’ second-round selection, has officially signed his rookie deal, announced by the team on Friday. Chosen 42nd overall, Lassiter became Houston’s initial pick after they traded away the 23rd pick to the Vikings prior to the draft. While the future capital acquired in that trade will benefit the Texans, Lassiter is poised to make an immediate impact in the secondary.
Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds, Lassiter played three seasons with the Georgia Bulldogs, contributing to their consecutive championship victories in 2021 and 2022. His abilities as a run defender were evident in the 2022 season, where he accumulated five tackles for loss. This trend continued into the following year with a total of 37 tackles, including 3.5 for loss.
In 2023, Lassiter achieved a career-high eight pass deflections, although he only managed one interception. With just two interceptions throughout his college career, his limited ball production may have influenced his position on the cornerback draft board. Concerns have also been raised about his long-speed, a factor worth monitoring as he transitions to the professional level.
Houston’s cornerback lineup already boasts Derek Stingley Jr. as a starter. In free agency, the team bolstered their cornerback position by signing C.J. Henderson, Jeff Okudah, and Mike Ford. Lassiter will compete for playing time among these new additions as well as returning players Desmond King and Troy Pride. At the very least, he is expected to contribute on special teams and provide depth in the secondary during his rookie campaign.
With just two unsigned rookies remaining, here is an updated look at the Texans’ 2024 class:
- Round 2, No. 42 (from Vikings): Kamari Lassiter (CB, Georgia) (signed)
- Round 2, No. 59: Blake Fisher (T, Notre Dame)
- Round 3, No. 78 (from Seahawks through Commanders and Eagles): Calen Bullock (S, USC)
- Round 4, No. 123 (from Browns through Texans): Cade Stover (TE, Ohio State) (signed)
- Round 6, No. 188 (from Raiders through Patriots and Vikings): Jamal Hill (LB, Oregon) (signed)
- Round 6, No. 205: Jawhar Jordan (RB, Louisville) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 238 (from Saints): Solomon Byrd (EDGE, USC) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 247: Marcus Harris (DT, Auburn) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 249: LaDarius Henderson (G, Michigan) (signed)
Leave a Reply