Houston has welcomed back former first-round draft pick Damon Arnette into the NFL fold with the Houston Texans recently signing the cornerback to a one-year deal. This marks Arnette’s return to the league for the first time since January 2022, after a series of legal challenges that plagued his career.
Arnette’s comeback journey began in the spring with the United Football League’s Houston Roughnecks, where he caught the eyes of NFL teams. After not appearing in a professional game since his days with the Las Vegas Raiders, Arnette noted that he feels like he is “the best version of myself that I’ve ever been.” His attempts to get back on the field have been years in the making, as the much-heralded 19th overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft faced numerous hurdles. The Raiders cut him just over a year after drafting him when a controversial video surfaced that showed him brandishing firearms.
Following his release, Arnette spent time on various practice squads, but his career took another hit with an arrest related to assault and weapons charges. Despite these setbacks, he stated, “I had to take a look in the mirror,” emphasizing the need for life changes and the importance of having a solid support system. He acknowledged that navigating the NFL world can be challenging without guidance.
During his time with the Roughnecks, Arnette started in eight games, totaling 19 tackles, one sack, and an interception that he returned for a 51-yard touchdown. “I feel like I’ve proved a complete turnaround,” he remarked. He believes that the feedback he gets from his coaches carries more weight now than in the past.
In his previous NFL tenure, Arnette played 13 games, recording 29 tackles and three breakups. Known for his talent at the college level, especially during his four years at Ohio State, Arnette aims to showcase newfound maturity and professionalism on the field as he embarks on this second chance with the Texans.
