A former face is headed back to NRG Stadium.
The Houston Texans are planning to re-sign undrafted rookie defensive lineman Pheldarius Payne following Sunday’s practice.
The Houston Chronicle’s Jonathan M. Alexander was the first to report the transaction on Monday morning.
Payne was picked up following the draft and stayed with the Texans through rookie minicamp and OTAs before being waived just before the start of training camp to make room for UFL star Malik Fisher.
The #Texans are planning to sign undrafted rookie DE Pheldarius Payne back to the roster, according to two sources with knowledge of the move.
— Jonathan M Alexander (@jonmalexander) August 12, 2024
Payne, who starred last season at Virginia Tech, offers similar position flexibility to that of defensive lineman Denico Autry. Autry inked a two-year deal worth $20 million this offseason but will miss the first six games after being suspended by the league for violating their PED usage.
“He’s an undersized defensive tackle that is very explosive and quick,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said during OTAs. “You saw him make a lot of plays on the other side of the line of scrimmage, utilizing his explosiveness, his quickness. So, we would like to see him translate that to our scheme and what we do.”
After transferring from Nebraska, Payne impressed with the Hokies’ defensive front, totaling 10 tackles for loss, four sacks and one forced fumble.
Even if he doesn’t make the team, Payne could stockpile over to the practice squad while he learns the ins and outs of Ryans’ defense. He’ll have a chance to prove his value on Saturday when Houston takes on the New York Giants in their preseason home opener.