Leading up to the 2025 NFL Draft, former UNC football standout Alijah Huzzie was projected as a mid-round pick.
A standout corner with special teams ability, Huzzie's versatility was something that stood out to NFL clubs, especially his ability at the nickel position. However, his draft stock plummeted when he tore his anterior cruciate ligament in the East-West Shrine Bowl all star game practice, leading to him being an undrafted free agent.
Knowing what he could bring to the table, the Houston Texans took a chance on him by signing him to a three-year deal. After spending most of the season rehabbing and getting back to form, Huzzie is set for his first NFL opportunity, as he's been elevated to the Texans' 53-man roster.
Finding out that you're being added to an NFL roster is quite the Christmas present!
Huzzie prepares for his NFL Debut
The Texans placed Jake Hansen, a special teams standout for the organization, on injured reserve, thus ending his season with just two weeks left to go. In need of a boost on defense and special teams, who better than Huzzie to elevate to the active roster to provide that.
While we shouldn't expect Huzzie to see much time on defense, his impact will likely come within the special teams unit. From returning kicks and punts to covering kicks, Huzzie can do a little bit of everything, a trait that should help him find some playing time as he kickstarts his NFL career.
Debut against a former UNC teammate
When Huzzie takes the field on Sunday afternoon against the Los Angles Chargers, there will be a very familiar face on the other sideline.
That is Omarion Hampton, Huzzie's former teammate at North Carolina.
From competing against one another in practice to now playing on the sport's biggest stage, it will be a cool moment for both former Tar Heels as they aim to secure a much-needed victory for their respective squads.