Dylan Horton Bio
Dylan Samuel Horton is an American professional football defensive end for the Houston Texans of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the New Mexico Lobos and TCU Horned Frogs. Born on August 21, 2000, in Frisco, Texas, Horton has made a significant impact on the field, transitioning from safety to linebacker and then to defensive end throughout his career. He was drafted by the Texans in 2023 and has faced health challenges, including a diagnosis of Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma, but continues to pursue his career in football.
Early Life and Background
Dylan Horton grew up in Frisco, Texas, where he attended Frisco High School. During his time there, he played safety on the football team. Initially, Horton committed to play college football at Southern Methodist University (SMU). However, following the departure of SMU head coach Chad Morris, he flipped his commitment to the University of New Mexico during his senior year.
Path to American Football
Horton began his college career at the University of New Mexico, where he was moved from safety to outside linebacker by the coaching staff. Over two seasons, he played in 17 games. After his time at New Mexico, he entered the NCAA transfer portal, ultimately transferring to Texas Christian University (TCU). The NCAA granted him a waiver to play immediately at TCU, where he transitioned from linebacker to defensive end. In his first season with the Horned Frogs, he became a starter and led the team with nine tackles for loss, tying for the team lead with four sacks. His performance earned him an honorable mention All-Big 12 Conference recognition as a senior. He notably contributed to TCU’s victory over Michigan in the 2022 Fiesta Bowl, recording four sacks, a forced fumble, and breaking up a pass.
Dylan Horton Career
Early Career (2023)
Dylan Horton was selected by the Houston Texans in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, being the 109th overall pick. His entry into the NFL marked the beginning of his professional career. Unfortunately, on November 22, 2023, Horton announced he was stepping away from football due to a personal health matter and was placed on the non-football illness list. He was diagnosed with Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma in December 2023, which entered remission in March 2024 after he completed radiation therapy in May.
Breakthrough (2024)
After overcoming significant health challenges, Horton was placed on the active/non-football illness list on July 18, 2024. He was later activated on October 5, 2024, marking his return to the field. Despite the obstacles he faced, Horton’s determination to continue his football career is commendable.
Notable Works and Milestones
Dylan Horton’s journey from high school to the NFL is marked by resilience and determination. His transition from safety to linebacker and then to defensive end showcases his versatility on the field. His performance in college, particularly at TCU, set the stage for his professional career, where he continues to strive for success despite personal health challenges.
Dylan Horton Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Dylan Horton has received recognition for his contributions on the field, particularly during his time at TCU, where he earned honorable mention All-Big 12 Conference honors.
Dylan Horton Awards Won
As of now, Dylan Horton has not won any major awards in his professional career, but his achievements in college football have laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors in the NFL.