James Houston, the former Jackson State standout, became one of the most impactful additions to the Cowboys’ defense in 2025.
Despite never cracking the starting lineup, Houston carved out a major role as a rotational pass rusher. He finished the season with 5.5 sacks, 35 total tackles, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery across 17 games. For a player coming off the bench, his production spoke volumes.
That performance didn’t go unnoticed.
Houston was named the NFLPA’s 2026 Black College Football Pro Player of the Year, becoming the tenth NFL player from an HBCU to earn the honor. It’s a recognition that not only highlights his impact on the field, but also his journey from Jackson State to the pro stage.
James Houston awarded the Black College Pro Football of the Year pic.twitter.com/L1CkyL0kXm
— HBCUGO.TV (@HBCUGoTV) June 7, 2026
“Being selected as this year’s NFLPA Black College Football Pro Player of the Year means a lot to me,” Houston said. “My time at Jackson State made me into the man and player I am today, and I’m proud to be a part of the legacy that HBCU players have built and will continue to build on and off the field.”
James Houston is solving problems off the field
Through his Problem Solved Foundation, he continues to invest in the next generation. He has a youth football camp, which is in its third year.
“Me and my team, we got together, and we do a camp every year,” he told the Dallas Cowboys website. “We’re just trying to help the kids — show them how to practice and how to have the right attitude and character to get far in life.”
As part of his NFLPA honor, Houston is also giving back to where it all started. A $5,000 donation has been awarded to Jackson State’s football program.
