Texans take on the ultimate gamble with failed first-round pick, but it will pay off if it works for Houston

The secondary in Houston has one of the top CBs in football with Derek Stingley Jr., and that became clear last season. Kamari Lassiter also became a key defender for Ryans' unit. The young defensive back played better than most people would have expected early in his pro career. 

Past those two, there is a lack of experience at outside cornerback for Houston. Taking the swing on Arnette makes sense for that reason alone. 

Damon Arnette was one of the many draft busts the Las Vegas Raiders have had over the last decade. But, Arnette's wasn't necessary because of his skill set. He struggled at times on the field, yes, but he was a young player still trying to find his way. You could always see that the dude could play back then, you were just waiting to see him put it all together. His main issue was what he was doing off the field, and the Raiders just didn't stand for any of that. If he has turned his life around, he could be a huge piece to the Texans.

 

The Texans have watched him closely as Arnette has been playing pretty well for the Roughnecks, the UFL team in town. They need the depth, and he can give it to them. And, who knows, maybe his game has developed since he last played big-time snaps in the NFL. Maybe, this is a big signing for the Texans, or maybe it's a really bad one. Time will tell.

-- Justin Churchill

Former NFL head coach Jon Gruden says that Arnette has changed for the better. He's got a new identity, according to Gruden.

'He’s got a whole new identity. He doesn’t look the same. He doesn’t act the same. He’s not the same. He has changed his identity. He changed the circle of people in his life, in a good way. He’s focused. He’s determined. He’s got to make up for some time that he lost. He’s really concentrating on stringing good days together. I’m really proud of him.' 

-- Jon Gruden via Aaron Wilson

There is little downside in this move. 

If Arnette struggles or deals with any off the field issues again, Houston can easily cut ties. If he proves that his talent is worthy of a roster spot, then the Texans can keep him for this season as a depth CB.