Lamarr Houston was the second round draft choice for the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders two top picks in the draft have been defense, and so far, they get an A++ draft grade in my book. Lamarr Houston is a gifted kid from the University of Texas who had 68 tackles (22 for loss) and 8 sacks in 2009.
“I’m happy, it’s a blessing I’m going to be an Oakland Raider,” said the kid from California soon after being drafted. “I’m bringing a winning tradition, University of Texas, that’s how we do it.”
Deion Sanders says he needs to be better against the run. But he did compliment his skills “He has heavy hands, whenever he strikes an opponent with his hands he can knock them silly,” said Sanders.
NFL network’s Mike Mayock was impressed with his balance and acceleration at the combine when Houston was running a cornerback backpedaling drill.
When he was recruited to Texas, he was a running back, so speed and acceleration are given for the big defensive tackle. In high school he ran for over 3,300 yards and scored nearly 50 touchdowns.
LaMarr Houston is my favorite defensive tackle sleeper this year. Although he played for a highly publicized Texas Longhorns defense, his 2010 draft status seems to have flown a little bit under the radar. One of the things I like about the 6’3″ 305 pounder is his straight line speed. Normally, I’d say that Al Davis’ infatuation for speed is annoying, but in this case, I’m glad Al actually takes a chance on the speed of Houston. Every time I have seen him play, I have been surprised by how nimble, agile, and fast to recover he was.
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He often takes double teams, because if you watch his highlight reel you’ll notice that not too many guards can handle him in one on one situations; he usually man handles them. Walterfootball.com said in their scouting report that he is not even close to his full potential. He is a multi-sport athlete who Texas had a hard time figuring out where to play.
Houston has good length and big hands. He is good at controlling running lanes and is an excellent pass rusher. During his time at Texas he recorded 136 tackles, 40 for loss, 14.5 sacks, and 65 QB pressures. Unfortunately, one of his downsides would fit right in with the 2009 preseason antics Tommy Kelly in that he often jumps off-sides. He has also earned a reputation for taking plays off at times. That reputation must not bother the Raiders too much though because the Raiders second round choice is in.
I personally thought he would be around early in the third, but nevertheless he was on my big board for the Oakland Raiders and I’m happy he is wearing Silver and Black next year.
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