Who many believed to be a sixth-to-seventh round pick, the Houston Texans invested their fifth-round selection in former Oregon State defensive back Treston Decoud, looking to bolster an already highly potent secondary. Decoud is a rare talent and student of the game, in that his on-field abilities coupled with off-field composure prove his worth to an NFL franchise. Showcasing his rare size and physicality, Decoud checks nearly every box required of a defensive back.
Boasting a distinguished resume, his junior and senior seasons are not to be forgotten by those in and around Corvallis. As put forth with the Beavers, Decoud’s competitive fervor and willingness to win will transfer to Houston, ultimately providing the Texans with a fearless competitor in the defensive backfield. Under the stewardship of head coach Bill O’Brian, along with newly promoted defensive coordinator and former linebacker of the New England Patriots Mike Vrabel, Decoud is in the best of hands as it pertains to mentorship.
He will be the newest member of the league’s best defense, having ranked second against the pass and 12th against the rush. Led by veteran cornerbacks Kareem Jackson and Johnathan Joseph, Houston’s secondary is in dire need of a new leader, as Decoud was arguably the draft’s best defensive back in that regard. While a cornerback in college, Decoud could see the field at safety and/or on special teams. Moreover, Decoud is no stranger to challenge and diversity, leaving every bit of a tireless work ethic on the field.
Looking to make an immediate contribution, Decoud’s prototypical NFL size at 6’2” already gives him an advantage amongst his contemporaries. Although lacking speed, his physicality and ballhawking skills are extraordinarily unusual for a perspective rookie, hence the Texans nabbing Decoud in round five rather than six or seven. Having said that, Houston also lacks intimidation in the secondary, as receivers will soon learn not to cross Decoud.
Comparable to two Seattle Seahawks and “Legion of Boom” members in Richard Sherman and Kam Chancellor, both overlooked when drafted in later rounds, Decoud’s potential is sky high. Furthermore, acquired knowledge from Jackson and Joseph will instantly better Decoud’s play. From the start of training camp, Decoud will leave 31 teams in awe, and further regretful for passing on him. Assuming all goes well on offense to compliment a top-tier defense, the Texans should have no issues in making a run at their first Super Bowl title.
As it pertains to sports cities and their fanbases, Houston is in the upper echelon, as a promising future for the Texans will fill NRG Stadium to its capacity. Already exhibiting its notoriety, Houston’s renowned secondary causes headache after headache amongst offenses throughout the league. Nevertheless, added height, toughness, and athleticism will take this defense a level higher, courtesy of the one man wrecking crew that is Treston Decoud.