The Houston Texans are looking far and wide for ways to improve their defensive line as training camp ramps up.
According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC, the latest move came Thursday as the team agreed to terms with defensive tackle Haggai Chisom Ndubuisi, an off-the-radar prospect from Lagos, Nigeria.
The 24-year-old Ndubuisi worked out for the Texans last week and is part of the NFL’s International Player Pathway (IPP) Program, which aims to increase opportunities for foreign-born players.
Ndubuisi spent last season with the Washington Commanders, and the New England Patriots signed him to a futures contact in January before waiving him with a non-football illness designation.
Ndubuisi effectively replaces rookie defensive tackle Kyonte Hamilton, who sustained a fractured ankle during Wednesday’s practice.
Newest Texan Has Played With Several NFL Teams
The 6-foot-6, 298-pound Ndubuisi has bounced around quite a bit since joining the NFL, having also played with the Arizona Cardinals and Denver Broncos.
Ndubuisi was originally an offensive lineman for Arizona in 2022 before switching to the defensive side of the ball with Denver. He appeared in one game during the 2023 preseason as a Bronco, recording a pair of tackles.
Ndubuisi was also briefly with the United Football League’s San Antonio Brahmas in 2023 before signing in Washington. He had five tackles, two quarterback hurries, and one sack in the preseason with the Commanders.
Ndubuisi grew up in Nigeria playing soccer and basketball before introducing himself to football by watching videos on YouTube. In 2021, he joined the UpRise Academy in Ghana, a program co-founded by former NFL star Osi Umenyiora, and later earned an invitation to an International NFL Camp in London.
What is the NFL International Player Pathway Program?
The NFL IPP Program was established in 2017 to provide athletes from around the globe an opportunity to earn a roster spot and to boost the league’s global appeal. Invitees participate in a 10-week training program at IMG Academy in Florida, where their abilities are measured by NFL scouts.
Players can be signed as free agents or, if eligible, selected in the draft. Each NFL team is granted one roster exemption for an eligible player.
The program has produced several quality players since its inception, including Philadelphia Eagles All-Pro tackle Jordan Mailata (Australia).
