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Former Ohio State star turned draft bust is now closer to turning his story around by landing with a new NFL team

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Brandon Little | Last updated Jun 18, 2025 4:45 PM ET

The Ohio State Buckeyes continue to be well-represented in the NFL, with 14 players selected in the most recent draft—each looking to carve out a role with their new teams.

While those rookies begin their professional football journeys, one former Buckeye is working to get his career back on track. Former Ohio State first-round pick Damon Arnette is making an NFL return.

Damon Arnette signing with the Houston Texans is a positive step forward for him

In encouraging news this Wednesday, cornerback Damon Arnette is reportedly signing with the Houston Texans, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. This marks Arnette’s first stint with an NFL team since 2022.

NFL comeback story: #Texans are expected to sign former #Raiders first-round CB Damon Arnette, per source, who now returns to the NFL for the first time since 2022.

Arnette just finished playing with the UFL’s Houston Roughnecks, recording 18 tackles, a sack, and a pick-six.… pic.twitter.com/TPWXyfQket
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) June 18, 2025

Arnette recently put together a strong season with the Houston Roughnecks in the UFL, which helped him earn another opportunity in the league. The Texans were in need of cornerback depth and worked out multiple players—ultimately choosing Arnette.

A first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders, Arnette appeared in just 13 games over two seasons. He hasn’t played in an NFL game since 2021. Off-field legal issues, among other factors, contributed to his early exit from the league. Now 28, Arnette says he has his life back on track and is focused on proving himself again.

Known at Ohio State for his aggressive, high-energy play style, Arnette was never afraid to speak his mind on the field—a quality that endeared him to Buckeye fans. He now joins fellow Buckeye alum C.J. Stroud in Houston, hoping to make the most of this second chance.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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