The Houston Roughnecks’ 1-9 season was hard on fans, the coaches, and especially the players. Whenever a team has a down year like this, it’s tough on everyone. Their record, the tough losses however, shouldn’t take away from individual player performances, and there are guys on this team who have absolutely earned the attention of the NFL.
WR Justin Hall
Despite a passing attack that often failed to produce momentum in the aggregate, and only scored 7 TD’s all season, Justin Hall was a consistent target for his quarterbacks this year. He finished with 56 Catches for 603 Yards and 3 TD’s. He actually tied Jontre Kirklin for the most receptions leaguewide, and ended up 3rd in yardage.
Doing so while running routes in an offense that otherwise struggled in the pass game is an impressive feat. He had a successful campaign last year and with two good pro seasons under his belt, could draw NFL interest at just 25 years old. He also adds versatility as a returner, which could be a big factor at the back end of a WR depth chart. The 5’8″ 189 pound wideout brings pro production and 4.4 speed to the table, and could compete for a WR/RS slot type role in the NFL.
RB Mark Thompson
While it took him some time to get back into form, and this was a team that often had to abandon the run, Thompson showed he still absolutely has a nose for the end zone. He finished with 225 Yards and 5 scores on the ground. His resume in spring football is impressive, and he now totals 1344 yards and 21 TD’s in the pros.
With previous stints in Baltimore and Detroit, the power back could add alot of depth and value to a team looking for a short yardage/goal line back in their stable.
DE Chris Odom
The former USFL DPOY had a solid campaign in 2024, notching 5 sacks and 8 tackles for loss off the edge despite being listed as a DT. Odom has proven time and again he can be a consistent producer in pressure, and EDGE is always a need across the NFL.
He’s had production at that level as well, with 2 sacks in Washington back in 2019, and his resurgence the past couple years in the USFL/UFL should warrant him consideration.
DB Markel Roby
Roby had a fantastic rookie campaign in the Pros. The scrappy corner fought his way up from Briar Cliff University, and Pittsburgh State in Division II ball to be a true bright spot on this defense. He came in and led the league with 3 interceptions, to go along with 58 total tackles and a sack.
A great performance for the young defensive back in his first campaign out of college, and whether it’s in the NFL, or around Spring Football I believe his future in the game will be bright. With good size, length and instincts, he was a true diamond in the rough.
