The Houston Texans are adding depth to their secondary with a familiar name from recent draft history.
After three years away from the NFL, a former first-round cornerback is getting another opportunity to prove himself at the professional level.
Damon Arnette last suited up for an NFL team in 2022, but his path back to the league took him through the UFL with the Houston Roughnecks.
His performance there caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to a workout with the Texans on June 9, just before minicamp began.
NFL Insider Jordan Schultz broke the news about Arnette’s expected signing.
“NFL comeback story: Texans are expected to sign former Raiders first-round CB Damon Arnette, per source, who now returns to the NFL for the first time since 2022,” Schultz reported.
NFL comeback story: #Texans are expected to sign former #Raiders first-round CB Damon Arnette, per source, who now returns to the NFL for the first time since 2022.
Arnette just finished playing with the UFL’s Houston Roughnecks, recording 18 tackles, a sack, and a pick-six.… pic.twitter.com/TPWXyfQket
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) June 18, 2025
The move addresses Houston’s need for cornerback depth behind established starters Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter.
Arnette recorded 18 tackles and one interception during the 2024 UFL season, showing he still possesses the skills that made him the 19th overall pick in 2020.
His college career at Ohio State was impressive, totaling 140 tackles, five interceptions, and a defensive touchdown.
However, his NFL journey has been marked by setbacks. Injuries limited his rookie season to nine games due to a thumb problem, while a groin injury affected his 2022 campaign.
Off-field issues in 2021 led to his release from Las Vegas that November.
A brief stint on Miami’s practice squad followed, but he couldn’t secure a roster spot.
Now back in Houston, Arnette faces competition from players like Tremon Smith and Jaylin Smith for a roster position.
Training camp and preseason games will determine whether his comeback story reaches its intended conclusion.
