The Houston Texans signed just six undrafted free agents after making nine selections in the 2024 NFL Draft. Arguably the most aggressive team this offseason from a talent acquisition perspective, it’s going to be difficult for any of these UDFAs to make the 53-man roster. However, former Illinois linebacker Tarique Barnes has the best chance.
Barnes did get a decent-sized contract from general manager Nick Caserio, insinuating real interest was present. The Texans committed $95,000 in total guarantees to Barnes, according to Spotrac. Though he wasn’t their highest-paid UDFA, the money is still notable enough to increase his chances of making the team.
Barnes wasn't invited to the NFL Combine, but he did perform at Illinois' pro day. The Memphis, Tennessee native ran an impressive 4.59 40 at 231 pounds. The undersized playmaker also posted above-average results in the vertical (34 inches) and bench press (21 reps).
Tarique Barnes is a LB prospect in the 2024 draft class. He scored a 7.22 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 780 out of 2800 LB from 1987 to 2024.https://t.co/7pq6JMWqIB pic.twitter.com/uRkSSaplNz
— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) April 3, 2024
A two-time team captain, Barnes was a five-year contributor at Illinois. The Illini standout totaled 189 tackles, including an 80-tackle season in 2021. Barnes also added 18 tackles for loss, nine passes defensed, 5.5 sacks, four fumbles, and two interceptions to his overall defensive numbers.
Special teams is often the quickest pathway for an undrafted rookie to prove he belongs on the field. Barnes is an experienced special teamer and possesses the profile of a potential NFL gunner. His red-hot motor and overall sense of urgency could quickly help him carve out a role.
The Texans have three starters at inside linebacker, but there's some competition for depth spots behind them. Christian Harris and Henry To'oTo'o will be joined in the lineup by free-agent signing Azeez Al-Shaair, who finished fifth in the league in tackles last year with 163. To'oTo'o is expected to play a bigger role following the departures of veteran defenders Blake Cashman and Denzel Perryman.
Cashman and Perryman were Houston's second-and-third-most snapped off-ball linebackers last season, so some snaps need replacing. Bumping To'oTo'o up the depth chart also creates room for backup players. That's where Barnes could thrive.
Oregon's Jamal Hill was drafted in the sixth round so that increases his chances of making the squad. Neville Hewitt and Jake Hansen are still on Caserio's roster. Hewitt (366) and Hansen (320) led all Texans players in special teams snaps last season, per Pro Football Reference. Barnes would likely have to out-position one of those veterans to make the initial 53, or else the practice squad will become his likely destination.
The Texans possess a deep roster that expects to win the AFC South and compete for a Super Bowl. That makes it difficult for any undrafted free agent to make the roster. Barnes will have an opportunity throughout training camp and the preseason. The other Texans' undrafted free agents worth monitoring are twin brother receivers Jadon and Jaxon Janke, running back British Brooks, and defensive lineman Pheldarius Payne.
