In 2013, Justin Reid experienced the NFL Draft with his big brother, Eric Reid, in the Green Room in New York City.
Five years later, Reid opted to spend his draft in the comfort of his home.
"I had about 100 people at the house," Reid said. "It's nerve-wracking. You truly have no idea who's going to call, who's going to pick you... It's really kind of like a drop in the hat where you don't know where you're going, but it's one of the most exciting and thrilling experiences of my life and I'm excited for those guys, those young prospects coming in."
That was the last time the Houston Texans waited until the third round to make their first selection. Reid, taken at No. 68 overall, went on to have a spectacular rookie campaign. He compiled 81 total tackles, three interceptions, including one returned 101 yards for a touchdown, 10 passes defensed, one quarterback hit, two tackles for loss, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and seven special teams tackles.
This year, the Texans will make their first selection in the third round at No. 67 overall. Reid admits he thought he would have been picked in the first or second round, but ultimately realized that his performance on the field was irrelevant to his draft position.
"It doesn't matter when you go, it matters when you get there and your attitude and your work ethic and how you contribute whenever you get to put on your pads and do your thing," Reid said. "I was really excited about it. I'm excited to see who we get next week."
The 2021 NFL Draft begins Thursday, April 29 in Cleveland. The Texans currently have eight draft picks: Round 3 (67th overall), Round 4 (109th overall), Round 5 (158th overall), Round 6 (195th, 203rd, 212th overall) and Round 7 (233rd overall).
