Texans Could Target South Carolina DB in NFL Draft

Houston has shown interest in defensive back Jalon Kilgore ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 3:35pm

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The Houston Texans appear to be one of several teams taking interest in South Carolina defensive back Jalon Kilgore leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft. Kilgore has reportedly received official 30-visit invitations from the Texans, as well as several other teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Carolina Panthers, and Seattle Seahawks. Texans general manager Nick Caserio was also spotted at Kilgore's pro day, indicating the team may have a special interest in the young defensive back.

Why it matters

The Texans have already made a significant investment in their secondary this offseason by signing veteran safety Reed Blankenship. Adding Kilgore, who is projected as a top-10 safety prospect in this year's draft class, could provide even more depth and talent to Houston's defensive backfield.

The details

Kilgore has reportedly met with several teams, including the Texans, Eagles, Panthers, Colts, and Seahawks, for official 30-visit meetings ahead of the draft. He also met with the Bengals, Vikings, Jets, and Dolphins around his pro day. The Texans have been one of the teams showing the most interest, with GM Nick Caserio attending Kilgore's pro day in person.

  • Kilgore had an informal meeting with the Texans at the NFL Combine in late February 2026.
  • Caserio attended Kilgore's pro day in Columbia, South Carolina in March 2026.

The players

Jalon Kilgore

A 21-year-old defensive back from the University of South Carolina who is projected as a top-10 safety prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Nick Caserio

The general manager of the Houston Texans, who personally attended Kilgore's pro day workout.

Reed Blankenship

A veteran safety who the Texans signed to a three-year deal earlier this offseason, solidifying their secondary.

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What they’re saying

“Kilgore has official 30 visits with the Philadelphia Eagles, Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, and Seattle Seahawks.”

— Tony Pauline, Reporter

“Kilgore noted he and the Texans had a 'good conversation' at their informal meeting a few weeks ago, and clearly, the team has liked what they've seen so far to warrant a closer look.”

— Jared Koch, Reporter

What’s next

The Texans will have a chance to further evaluate Kilgore during his upcoming 30-visit with the team, giving them an up-close look at the talented defensive back ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Texans' interest in Kilgore, combined with their recent investment in the secondary, suggests they could be targeting defensive backs in the upcoming draft as they look to bolster their defensive backfield.