Alijah Huzzie’s NFL path took another sharp turn Tuesday, and this time it landed him on a 53-man roster.
The Jacksonville Jaguars announced several roster moves, and one of them brought the former Tar Heel out of the Houston Texans’ practice squad and onto Jacksonville’s active roster. That’s a quick leap from the last-place team in the AFC South to the division’s top squad.
Huzzie originally signed with the Texans as an undrafted free agent in 2025. Injury limited him to just two games last season, but he still managed three tackles and an interception. He didn’t crack Houston’s active roster out of training camp, though the Texans kept him close by stashing him on the practice squad.
That arrangement didn’t last once Jacksonville came calling.
“We have signed CB Alijah Huzzie to the active roster. @Shift4 | #DUUUVAL pic.twitter.com/9guZo5IBpg
- Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) October 6, 2026”
For North Carolina fans, Huzzie’s name still carries plenty of weight. After transferring in from East Tennessee State, he spent two seasons as one of UNC’s most important defenders, often taking on the opponent’s top receiver. In 24 games as a Tar Heel, he piled up 82 tackles, including 6.5 for loss, along with 18 passes defensed, four interceptions and two sacks.
Jacksonville’s need in the secondary likely played a role in the move. The Jaguars are dealing with some injuries back there, and with a 3-1 start already in hand, they needed another player who could help right away. Huzzie brings that kind of flexibility.
He can play outside, but nickel is where he really stands out. And he’s not just a defensive add-on; he also brings value on special teams, which gives him multiple ways to stick.
That matters when roster spots are tight. Special teams ability can be the edge that keeps a player around, and Huzzie has that in his favor.
For Huzzie, this is another chance to prove he belongs on an NFL roster. The Jaguars may be the current landing spot, but every snap is also a tryout for the rest of the league. If he performs, another opportunity could be waiting right behind it.
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