Revisiting Deion Sanders, Jackson State Star's Smashing Thanksgiving Day NFL Debut
HOUSTON — Last Thanksgiving, former Jackson State's star linebacker had a smashing debut against quarterback Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills. After a few months on the Detroit Lions practice squad, Houston finally got his opportunity as head coach Dan Campbell elevated him to the 53-man roster because of injuries along the Lions' defensive line.
James Houston IV; Credit:© Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK
It was going to be a challenging task for the rookie edge rusher who joined a defensive line without their top draft pick, DE Adrian Hutchinson, to battle the Buffalo Bills. It was a significant day for the Houston family as they celebrated his mother Sonja's birthday. The Jackson State star and 2021 SWAC Newcomer of the Year went to work by delivering an outstanding performance with two sacks, two TFLs, two QB hits, and one fumble recovery before the day ended.
Houston has had a minor setback in his return from breaking his ankle in Week 2. He's currently on the Lions' injured reserve list.
Houston, 24, is a Fort Lauderdale native from American Heritage high school. The Florida Gators recruited Houston in 2017. He later played in the 2018 and 2019 seasons before transferring to Jackson State.
Detroit selected Houston as the 217th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
The Deion Sanders disciple was named SWAC 2021 Newcomer of the Year and earned Associated Press FCS All-American team honors en route to the NFL.
