WIU’s Houston sticks with Cowboys, while C-SC’s Rupcich gets cut by Titans

QUINCY — One undrafted free agent defied the odds. Another’s pursuit of an NFL career isn’t over. The ever-evolving NFL rosters could create unique opportunities for both.

Former Western Illinois University wide receiver Dennis Houston made the Dallas Cowboys’ 53-man roster after final cuts were announced Tuesday. Meanwhile, former Culver-Stockton College All-American offensive tackle Andrew Rupcich was cut by the Tennessee Titans.

Rupcich could land on the Titans’ practice squad or be signed by another franchise in the days or weeks to come.

NFL teams can begin building their 16-player practice squads at noon Wednesday. Here are the players who are eligible to be added to a practice squad:

• Players who do not have an accrued season of NFL experience.

• Free agent players who were on the Active List for fewer than nine games in their only accrued season.

• A maximum of 10 free agent players who have earned no more than two accrued seasons.

• A maximum of six free agent players with no limitations to their number of earned accrued seasons.

Rupcich was one of seven offensive linemen cut by the Titans, who traded for a backup offensive lineman Tuesday before cuts were announced.

Meanwhile, in Dallas, Houston developed a rapport with Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and impressed the coaching staff to be one of seven wide receivers on the roster.

Last fall, Houston was a first-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference selection and a third-team All-American when he averaged 8.5 receptions per game, which was the best in the nation in FCS. He ended the season with 1.015 yards receiving and six touchdowns.

Houston caught only three passes for 53 yards in three preseason games, but Prescott raved about him while talking to the media at training camp last week.

“When you break the huddle, he’s lining up in the right spot, no matter what position he’s in. He’s where I expect him to be on each and every play,” Prescott told reporters according to San Antonio television station KENS.

“He’s just a tough guy, very resilient. I might say, ‘Hey, did the DB hold you right there?’ And he’s like, ‘Ahh, I’ve got to make the play.’ When you get that response from a young guy like that, not making excuses and trying to help the team in any way that he can, it makes you excited.”