George Odum is returning to the Houston Texans’ active lineup for their game against the Cincinnati Bengals, marking his second practice squad elevation this season. Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 reported the move Sept. 19.
Odum played 71% of Houston’s special teams snaps against the Buffalo Bills and made one tackle in that 36-31 loss. Caleb Bullock and Reed Blankenship are healthy, but the Texans are using Odum for his special teams contributions. Coach DeMeco Ryans previously praised his playmaking during the preseason.
Pro Football Focus placed him 26th among Houston’s 29 special teams players for the Buffalo game, while noting that its overall grade does not reflect performance in every phase.
The ninth-year NFL player has also been with the Indianapolis Colts and San Francisco 49ers, earning one All-Pro honor with each team. One set of career figures lists 205 tackles, three interceptions, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. Other career totals show 209 tackles, three interceptions, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries, along with 12 starts in 109 games.
Houston can elevate him one more time under the current arrangement. The Texans are scheduled to play the Colts in Week 3, which could be his final elevation before the team must add him to its 53-man roster or choose another route.
