For the first time in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Texans selected a defensive player in USC's Jaylin Smith.
The cornerback was chosen in the third round at 97th overall, and is the fourth player taken by the team on the night.
Smith started 32 games in his 4-year career with the Trojans, picking off three passes, forcing a pair of fumbles and recording 182 tackles.
He was overjoyed to be a Texan.
"It was a great time," Smith said. "A great experience. Something I'll always remember for the rest of my life."
He joins former USC teammate Calen Bullock, a 2024 Texans draft pick, in the Houston secondary. Bullock was at Smith's Draft celebration party in Los Angeles on Friday evening.
In addition to playing cornerback, the 5-10, 187-pound Smith also played the nickel corner position and at both safety spots in his time at USC.
"I'm a super versatile player," Smith said. "I can play any position at a very high level. I can also do a lot on special teams and just bring a lot of energy."
The Texans have five selections remaining in the 2025 NFL Draft.
