HOUSTON, TX — The Houston Texans have signed cornerback Damon Arnette, a former first-round pick of the Las Vegas Raiders, marking a stunning return to the NFL after years of legal trouble and time away from professional football.
Arnette, 28, was out of the league for over two years before briefly joining the UFL’s Houston Roughnecks, where he showcased enough potential to earn another shot at the NFL.
The former Ohio State star was selected 19th overall by the Raiders in the 2020 NFL Draft, but off-field issues quickly derailed his career.
A History of Legal Troubles
Arnette’s legal history is extensive and includes accusations of:
Assault with a deadly weapon
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit
Fleeing the scene of a vehicular crash
Making death threats while brandishing a firearm
Possession of methamphetamine and a firearm (2024)
Theft of a Cartier watch
Multiple drug charges and driving violations
In one of the more publicized cases, Arnette was sentenced to 50 hours of community service and a $2,000 fine as part of a plea deal stemming from a 2022 assault charge in Las Vegas.
Recent Arrest and Legal Defense
In January 2024, Arnette was arrested in Richardson, Texas, and charged with possession of methamphetamine and unlawful carrying of a firearm. His attorneys claim the arrest was a misunderstanding, stating:
“Our client, at the time of the stop, was unable to provide law enforcement with his prescription for a lawful medication… Had he been able to do so, there would have been no arrest.”
Despite his legal issues, Arnette was not charged in that incident after follow-up investigations.
From UFL Redemption to NFL Return
Arnette’s comeback began in the United Football League (UFL), where he joined the Houston Roughnecks. Initially turned away by UFL EVP Daryl Johnston, Arnette said that rejection motivated him to change.
“I had to make some serious life changes,” Arnette said. “I invited back my support system… I see how dangerous it is to navigate new situations without guidance.”
Now with the Houston Texans, Arnette joins a talented secondary that features All-Pro Derek Stingley Jr., C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Kamari Lassiter.
The Texans have declined to comment on Arnette’s legal history, instead focusing on his recent performance and potential contribution to the team.
