INDIANAPOLIS - The Texans' affinity for the hard-nosed football players produced by the Michigan State program is no secret in NFL circles.
The Texans' roster includes former Spartans quarterback Brian Hoyer, wide receiver Keith Mumphery, linebacker Max Bullough and safety Kurtis Drummond. They also had wide receiver Keshawn Martin on the team until trading him to the New England Patriots last year.
Texans general manager Rick Smith has strong ties to the Michigan State coaching staff, including fellow former Purdue defensive back Tony Samuel, a Houston native and the Spartans receivers coach.
"Maybe because we're hard-working," Michigan State defensive end Shilique Calhoun said at the NFL scouting combine.