Houston Texans’ Calen Bullock makes great first impression on coach DeMeco Ryans

Kamari Lassiter wasn’t the only rookie who stood out during the Houston Texans’ mandatory minicamp. Calen Bullock has played several times during OTAs and minicamps. Bullock spent most of his time receiving snaps with the presumptive second team, and his production led coach DeMeco Ryans to be impressed with the former UCLA defensive back.

“He’s done a really good job with communication – we demand a lot from our security and communication for our defense,” Ryans said. “He’s figured that out since he’s been here the last few weeks. I know he’ll continue to improve his communication skills.”

READ MORE: Fran Brown’s impact on Kamari Lassiter at Houston Texans minicamp

During the second day of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Texans sent a trade package to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for the No. 78 overall pick used to select Bullock.

Ryans and general manager Nick Caserio have become fond of Bullock because of his versatility, but more importantly, his defensive skills with the ball. During Bullock’s final season at USC, he recorded a coverage grade of 82.2 – according to Pro Football Focus.

Late last season, Ryans expressed a desire to improve the Texans’ ability to create more takeaways. In 2023, they achieved 14 turnovers. However, cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. and Steven Nelson accounted for nine.

The rookie defensive back recorded nine interceptions during his three-year tenure as USC’s starting safety. He entered the draft as one of the best defensive ballhawks, adding 15 pass deflections in 38 college games.

Bullock has consistently showcased his talents at the Houston Methodist Training Center, which could lead to some vital snaps during the 2024 season.

“(Bullock is) a guy that can run through the backend and make plays, like he showed. The range he has, he made some good plays for us. We see the coverage ability – it’s just he who continues to improve his communication.

READ MORE: Texans’ Calen Bullock aims to ‘leave it all on the field’

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Follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at@CotyDavis_24.