Former Troy offensive lineman gets NFL opportunity

The Houston Texans have bolstered their offensive line, announcing on Tuesday that the team has signed offensive tackle Derrick Graham following a successful workout.

Graham arrives in Houston after a collegiate career that spanned six seasons. After competing for Troy for four years, he spent his final two seasons playing left tackle at Tulane. During his time with the Trojans, Graham showed early promise by starting the final nine games of his freshman season in 2020 at right tackle. Following appearances in 14 games over the next two years, he started every game for Troy during the 2023 season.

Trojans fans likely remember his final appearance for the program, where he famously recorded a 2-yard touchdown run during the 76 Birmingham Bowl at Protective Stadium on Dec. 23, 2023—a game where Troy fell to Duke 17-10.

A Familiar Connection

The transition to the Texans features an intriguing connection, as Houston offensive-line coach Cole Popovich served in the same capacity at Troy back in 2022. Graham fills a spot on the roster after the organization released guard Sidy Sow on Monday.

Following in Footsteps

Football runs in the family for the undrafted rookie. His father, Derrick Graham, enjoyed a nine-season career in the NFL. The elder Graham was a staple on the offensive line, serving as the starting right tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs in 1994, and later playing right guard for the Seattle Seahawks in 1996 and the Oakland Raiders in 1998.

For more of 205focus.com’s coverage of the NFL, head over to our NFL page. Additional details on the transaction can be found via the official announcement from the Texans.