Former HBCU Football Star James Houston IV Signed By Dallas Cowboys

JAMES HOUSTON'S NFL DEBUT

He sacked the Bills quarterback, Josh Allen, twice and recorded a special team fumble recovery in his debut. James Houston IV ended his rookie season with eight sacks and holds the NFL rookie record for the most sacks through six games.

In Week 17 of the 2022 season, he won the Pepsi Rookie of the Week award for sacking Chicago quarterback Justin Fields three times and forcing a fumble.

Houston was injured most of his second season with the Lions after suffering a lower leg injury against the Seattle Seahawks.

JAMES HOUSTON'S CAREER RESET IN DALLAS?

He fell out of Campbell's favor following another early-season injury. Campbell referred to a needed change of scenery for Houston, then claimed by Cleveland following his release from Detroit.

Micah Parsons, the defensive end for Dallas, is negotiating a new contract with owner Jerry Jones. This situation may limit his participation in training camp until the matter is resolved.

Last season, Dallas recorded 52 sacks, which ranked No. 4 in the league, with Parsons contributing 12.

His absence could give Houston extra reps and an opportunity to catch the attention of the new Cowboys defensive coordinator, Matt Eberflus

Previous James Houston IV news coverage:

The Cleveland Browns claimed James "The Problem" Houston IV after clearing waivers. Detroit Lions released Houston on Tuesday, Nov. 26. after nearly three seasons.   

Houston had a breakout rookie season with the Detroit Lions in the National Football League. Making seven game appearances, Houston set NFL rookie records with eight sacks.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell explained why Detroit waived Houston:

"Yeah, it just didn't (work out.) It just didn't, you know, we had James up for a number of games, you know, came back off the injury, got back, and just never quite worked out, you know. And look, wish him the best of luck.  And sometimes you just need a fresh start, and this could be great for him, so wish him the best."

The HBCU football product spent most of his second season on injured reserve due to an ankle injury. He opened this season with a minor injury but was a healthy scratch for several weeks.

James Houston IV was a playmaker for the Jackson State Tigers' defense in 2021. The HBCU standout recorded 70 tackles, 24.5 tackles for a loss, 16.5 sacks, and an interception in 2021.
Houston, 24, is a Fort Lauderdale native from American Heritage high school.

The Florida Gators recruited Houston in 2017. He later played in the 2018 and 2019 seasons before transferring to Jackson State.

The Deion Sanders disciple was named SWAC 2021 Newcomer of the Year and earned Associated Press FCS All-American team honors en route to the NFL.