The Houston Texans claimed running back Dontrell Hiillard off waivers from the Cleveland Browns on Tuesday.
The 2018 undrafted free agent from Tulane played 30 games for the Browns, catching 22 passes for 199 yards and carrying 22 times for 97 yards and two touchdowns.
Where Hilliard also had utility for Cleveland was as a kickoff returner, where he returned 30 kicks for a 23.5 yards per return after. Hilliard also returned 15 punts for 7.1 yards.
Interim coach Romeo Crennel gave a brief scouting report on Hilliard and what he can bring to the Texans’ offense and special teams.
“Basically, a third-down back who’s been a returner,” Crennel said. “Has some quickness, change of direction. Has an opportunity to be more productive maybe in the kickoff return area and then in the third down area as a third-down back out of the backfield.”
The Texans waived DeAndre Carter, their primary returner, on Nov. 17. Receiver Keke Coutee had been fulfilling that role since Carter’s departure.
Starting running back David Johnson missed Week 14’s 36-7 loss to the Chicago Bears due to being placed on the COVID-19 reserve after being in close contact with a positive case. Duke Johnson and Buddy Howell replaced Johnson in the loss.
