Davenport eager to prove himself

Overlooked by recruiters out of high school, Bucknell offensive tackle Julie’n Davenport maintained a competitive edge that has carried him through the NFL draft.

The Texans’ massive fourthround draft pick doesn’t lack for motivation coming from a smaller school.

“Definitely have that chip on my shoulder,” Davenport said on Saturday. “It’s there, and I’m going to keep it there because there’s going to be a lot of doubters in the process and all you have to do is either prove them right or prove them wrong.”

Although regarded as something of a developmental prospect coming out of the Colonial Athletic Association, Davenport could compete for playing time quickly at right tackle with three-time Pro Bowl blocker Duane Brown entrenched on the left side.

Despite tough road, Decoud confident

When the Texans drafted Oregon State cornerback Treston Decoud in the fifth round, it represented the culmination of a long journey.

Decoud had academic issues and attended Division II Chadron State in Nebraska along with Northwest Mississippi Junior College before earning a scholarship to Oregon State.

“I never second-guessed myself,” Decoud said. “I always believed in my ability, so I didn’t care where I would go. I didn’t care what round or if I went undrafted. I just wanted the opportunity to showcase myself. Nothing has ever been given to me. I have always been the underdog.”

Clemson connection heads to Houston

The Texans’ roster features four former Clemson standouts.

The latest to join the AFC South champions is former Tigers defensive tackle Carlos Watkins, who was picked in the fourth round after the Texans drafted Clemson All-American quarterback Deshaun Watson in the first round.

The Texans drafted starting nose tackle D.J. Reader in the fifth round last year and already have Pro Bowl receiver DeAndre Hopkins on the team.

“It’s really a blessing to play with those guys again,” Watkins said. “D.J.’s my big bro.”