Former Texans DB's son signs with University of Houston in 2026

A former Houston Texans defensive back will be seen a bit more over at TDECU Stadium in the future on Saturdays when the Houston Cougars take the field.

Johnathan Joseph Jr., the son of Texans former All-Pro cornerback Johanthan Joseph, announced his intent to play for the University of Houston. A standout at Stratford High School, Joseph Jr. was a two-way player, seeing action at wide receiver, cornerback and in the return game. 

According to Chron.com, Joseph Jr. chose Houston over offers from Arkansas State, UCF, UNLV and Boston College. This past season, he was named a First Team All-District defensive back, totaling 58 tackles and one interception. He also scored five touchdowns, three as a receiver, one as a return man and one rushing score.

Joseph, a standout at South Carolina in the early 2000s, was a two-time Pro Bowler for the Texans during his illustrious 15 seasons in the NFL. A first-round pick by the Bengals in 2006, Joseph became one of the best young corners during his five seasons. He then spent nine years with the Texans, becoming the franchise's most consistent defensive back before spending the final year with the Tennessee Titans and Arizona Cardinals.

Congratulations to ⁦@StratfordFB1⁩’s Jonathan Joseph on his commitment to University of Houston! #SBISDProudpic.twitter.com/aWsk5qTpAL— Spring Branch ISD Athletics (@sbisdathletics) February 5, 2026

With the Texans, Joseph totaled 17 interceptions, 118 pass breakups, eight forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries and four touchdowns.

Joseph Jr. will hopefully be the next big-time name under Cougars head coach Willie Fritz entering 2026. Houston plans on building off a successful 10-3 campaign from 2025 that helped the Big 12 program finish top 20 in the final AP Poll.

This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Former Texans DB's son signs with University of Houston in 2026