The Houston Texans added to their linebacking corps on Day 3 of the 2023 NFL draft with Alabama’s Henry To’oTo’o.
Houston already had an Alabama linebacker on the team in former 2022 third-rounder Christian Harris. However, the Texans grabbed To’oTo’o in the fifth round to bolster their group.
According to coach DeMeco Ryans — incidentally a former Alabama linebacker himself — the Texans admired To’oTo’o for his consistency on the field as well as his ability to relay defensive calls.
“Henry has been a very consistent player,” Ryans told reporters May 12 at Texans rookie minicamp. “Watching him in Alabama over the years, he’s been very consistent and a part of a really good defense there.”
In two seasons with the Crimson Tide, the 22-year-old collected 205 combined tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, a pass breakup, and a forced fumble through 28 career games.
“He’s a very good communicator, running the show there,” said Ryans. “They have a lot of calls, checks with that defense. So just being familiar with it, I have high respect for guys who have to communicate in college because it’s an easier transition when they come to our level.”
The Texans also have linebackers Christian Kirksey, Denzel Perryman, Garret Wallow, Jermaine Carter, Blake Cashman, Jake Hansen, and Cory Littleton on the roster.
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