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Astros Draftee Bryce Boettcher Puts Baseball on Hold to Pursue NFL at Combine

Houston still holds his MLB rights during his meetings with NFL clubs before April's draft.

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Oregon linebacker Bryce Boettcher, drafted by the Astros two years ago, has seen his football prospects improve to where he's at the NFL combine fully pursuing an NFL career.

Overview

  • At the NFL Scouting Combine, the Oregon linebacker said his baseball career is on hold as he focuses fully on football and an NFL future.
  • The Astros, who drafted him in the 13th round in 2024, have retained his rights and placed him on the restricted list, and he has yet to play in their system.
  • He has begun team interviews in Indianapolis, including an informal meeting with the Houston Texans, with on-field drills scheduled Thursday.
  • Boettcher’s 2025 season included a Big Ten-leading 136 tackles, First Team All-American honors, and the Burlsworth Trophy after rising from walk-on to starter.
  • The April 2026 NFL Draft is his next inflection point, and scouting profiles suggest a potential Day 3 selection or special-teams role, with a return to the Astros possible if he is not drafted.