During the 2024 NFL Draft, DeMeco Ryans, the coach of the Houston Texans, enlisted the help of two promising talents from USC to bolster the team’s defense. Despite being in Southern California, the Texans weren’t there for leisure; they were scouting potential players at USC. This scouting paid off as they secured two former Trojans during the draft. Their final pick on Day 2, at No. 78 overall, was safety Calen Bullock. Then, before wrapping up Day 3 on Saturday, they selected Solomon Byrd in the seventh round, at No. 238.

Coach DeMeco Ryans is thrilled about welcoming the USC prospects into the Houston Texans’ lineup, citing their embodiment of the team’s “SWARM” mentality. He specifically praised Calen Bullock for his exceptional ball skills and playmaking ability in the secondary, qualities crucial for the Texans’ defensive strategy.

The Texans struggled in the 2023 season, particularly in pass defense, ranking below average in the league. Bullock, with his impressive track record of interceptions and pass breakups at USC, is seen as a key solution to bolstering the safety unit.

Ryans emphasized the necessity of fortifying the defense, especially in facing top-tier quarterbacks on the Texans’ path to championship contention. Solomon Byrd, characterized by his relentless play and pass-rushing prowess, addresses this need, adding depth to the defensive line alongside established stars like Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter.

Byrd’s versatility in both pass rushing and run defense further enhances the Texans’ defensive arsenal. Ryans expressed confidence in the overall draft class, believing that the additions on both offense and defense will elevate the team’s performance in the upcoming season.

The Texans’ investment in scouting USC prospects reflects their commitment to improving the team, with Ryans and his coaching staff eagerly anticipating working with the new additions to realize their potential on the field.