Samford's most notable NFL alumni news this week came out of Houston, where the Texans officially signed wide receiver Montrell Washington ahead of the 2026 season.
Washington, a product of Samford's program in Birmingham, AL, latches on with an AFC South squad that has been building toward contention in recent years. The move gives Washington a legitimate opportunity to carve out a roster spot — and potentially a meaningful role — in Houston's offensive system.
The signing marks another data point in a quiet but steady NFL presence for Samford alumni. Washington joins a fraternity of Bulldogs currently active across the league, including cornerback James Bradberry (Eagles), tight end Qadir Ismail (Bears), defensive tackle Michael Pierce (Ravens), and defensive tackle Nick Williams (49ers). It's a diverse cross-league footprint for a program that doesn't always draw top-of-the-scroll recruiting attention.
For Washington, the Texans represent a fresh start and a prime stage. Houston's offense gives him a chance to prove his value at the NFL level, and landing a contract — right as rosters begin to take shape — is a meaningful development for any receiver fighting for a spot.
Samford fans tuning into the AFC South this fall will have reason to keep the Texans on their radar.
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