The Houston Texans selected cornerback Kamari Lassiter in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Lassiter’s physicality and competitive spirit are expected to fill a significant need in the Texans’ defense. His NFL.com player comparison is former Georgia Bulldog and first-round pick, Deandre Baker.
Lassiter’s Potential Impact on the Texans
The Houston Texans entered the 2024 NFL Draft without a first-round pick after trades to acquire offensive and defensive talent in previous years. Their first selection was in the second round, where they chose Georgia cornerback, Kamari Lassiter. Lassiter is projected to start opposite Derek Stingley Jr., addressing a critical need in their secondary. He’s known for his aggressive play and willingness to contribute as a run defender.
A Comparison to Deandre Baker: Talent and Troubles
NFL.com analysts compared Lassiter to Deandre Baker, another Georgia product who was a first-round pick of the New York Giants in 2019. While Baker possessed immense talent, his NFL career was short-lived due to off-field issues. He was released by the Giants and briefly played for the Kansas City Chiefs before leaving the league. This comparison raises questions about whether Lassiter’s on-field abilities will translate to long-term NFL success.
Lassiter’s Strengths and Weaknesses
While Lassiter might not have the elite athleticism of some other cornerbacks in the draft, he compensates with his physicality and relentless effort. He excels in press coverage and isn’t afraid to tackle. However, concerns remain about his speed and agility, which were evident in pre-draft testing.
The Texans’ Defensive Strategy
The selection of Lassiter signals the Texans’ commitment to building a tough, competitive defense. Pairing him with Stingley Jr. could create a formidable cornerback duo. The team hopes that Lassiter’s strengths will outweigh any potential weaknesses and that he can develop into a reliable starter for years to come. The question remains: will Lassiter follow Baker’s path or forge his own successful NFL journey?
Conclusion
Kamari Lassiter has the potential to be a key contributor to the Houston Texans’ defense. However, the comparison to Deandre Baker serves as a reminder that talent alone doesn’t guarantee success in the NFL. Lassiter’s career trajectory will depend on his ability to refine his skills and avoid the off-field issues that derailed Baker’s promising career. Will Lassiter become a shutdown corner for the Texans, or will he be another cautionary tale? Only time will tell.
