HOUSTON – University of Houston standout safety A.J. Haulcy is exploring his options as he officially entered the NCAA transfer portal.
Represented by AP Sports Agency, Haulcy was an All-Big 12 selection last season who led the Coogs with five interceptions and tied for the most in the league. He ranked second with 13 passes defensed and had a 85.8 Pro Football Focus coverage grade.
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Now, Haulcy is looking to move on. The Thurgood Marshall graduate had 97 tackles two seasons ago and is a plug-and-play safety expected to draw interest from multiple top programs around the nation. Texas A&M, Texas and other programs could be potential destinations for Haulcy, a big, fast and physical defensive back at 6-foot, 215 pounds
Haulcy, a former freshman All-American at New Mexico, spoke with KPRC 2 about his decision:
What went into such a pivotal decision to enter the portal and how was your experience overall at UH and previously at New Mexico?
“The biggest factor in making my decision was God. I gave everything to Him, asked Him to lead and guide me down the righteous path, and this is the outcome. I’m looking for a place where I can play on the biggest stage, compete for a national championship, and continue growing as both a player and a man.”
What are you hoping for from a football program in terms of winning, coaching, facilities, conference and track record of sending players to the NFL?
“From a coaching standpoint, I want someone who can elevate my game — someone who can teach me more than I already know about football. At the end of the day, I just want to play, win, and keep learning."
What type of player in terms of your skills will your new team get and as a person in the locker room and community?
“I would describe myself as a fast, physical, and versatile player. I’ve improved in every part of my game. I can play zone, I can play man, and I can come down in the box and make plays. I’m a leader who leads by example — if I want everyone doing the right thing, I’m going to show them how to do it. I also share the free game I’ve learned over the years with my teammates because I want us all to win. Off the field, I care deeply about giving back to the community.
“Growing up, I always wished someone would come back and give us the things we didn’t have — so now I’m that person. I’ve been part of several community efforts. One time, with my former teammate Donovan Smith, we handed out backpacks to elementary school kids for back-to-school. I also helped give out toys to kids at an elementary school with Justin Allen. My goal as a player is to be the best version of myself every single day. I want to win, be a great teammate, and become the best safety in next year’s draft.”
Lastly, what are your goals as a player and how does training with Jacory Nichols alongside NFL guys boost your game and motivate you?
“Training with Jacory has played a huge role in that. His workouts give you real game reps, so when it’s time to suit up, it feels like I’ve already done it a thousand times. He really helped sharpen my coverage skills. Training alongside NFL guys also pushes me — it reminds me that there’s always room to grow, and the free game they share during workouts is invaluable."
Aaron Wilson is a Texans and NFL reporter for KPRC 2 and click2houston.com.
