The Texans signed rookies Antoine Caldwell, a center from Alabama, and James Casey, a tight end from Rice, on Tuesday. Terms were not disclosed.
Caldwell, a third-round pick, started 48 games for the Crimson Tide in four seasons. He will back up starting C Chris Myers and can also play guard in a pinch, having started 13 collegiate games at that position.
Casey, whom the Texans selected in the fifth round, was a prolific pass catcher for the Owls. He set a Conference USA record in 2008 with 111 receptions. Before playing for Rice, Casey spent three seasons as a minor-league pitcher for the Chicago White Sox.
The Texans have signed six of their eight draft picks. Only SLB Brian Cushing, their No. 1 choice, and DE Connor Barwin, their second-round selection, remain unsigned.