Former Clemson Tigers linebacker Wade Woodaz made a splash in his NFL debut, intercepting a pass from No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza and turning it into an 80‑yard touchdown return for the Houston Texans during a preseason matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The play not only gave Houston an early 14‑0 lead in the first quarter but also marked the first career highlight for the fourth‑round draft pick, who spent four seasons at Clemson compiling 201 tackles, 28.5 for loss, and a sophomore interception return for a score.
Selected 123rd overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, Woodaz joins a Texans roster that opens its regular season on September 13 against the Buffalo Bills at Reliant Stadium, a game that will be broadcast regionally on CBS.
While the Texans fell 22‑20, the defensive showcase highlighted the potential of a unit that forced four fumbles and blocked a punt over Woodaz’s college career, underscoring the impact of his versatile skill set.
Beyond the highlight, Woodaz’s collegiate résumé includes 13 pass breakups, nine sacks, and a reputation for hard‑hitting play that could make him a factor in Houston’s defensive schemes as the team looks to build on its early preseason momentum.
A Glimpse of What’s to Come
Coaches and analysts alike are already drawing comparisons between Woodaz’s knack for timely turnovers and the playmakers who have shaped the franchise’s recent history, suggesting that his presence could accelerate the Texans’ defensive resurgence.
With the regular season looming, the former Clemson standout will have ample opportunity to translate his preseason spark into sustained contributions, a prospect that has the Houston faithful eager to see how the former Tiger will shape the team’s fortunes on the field.