The Houston Texans selected Indiana linebacker Aiden Fisher with the 243rd overall pick in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft, according to an April 25 press conference. Fisher, a national championship winner and two-time First-Team All-American, spoke to reporters after his selection.
Fisher said that his time playing under head coach Curt Cignetti at both James Madison and Indiana shaped him on and off the field. “The amount of things I’ve learned from Coach Cignetti and that entire staff, what I’ve learned from my teammates, it’s changed me for the better. Being able to take away different things in football, but in life is more important to me. I’ve learned how to be a better teammate. I’ve learned how to be a better leader. And that’s why I’m here today. I’ve been able to try to elevate other people’s games while also improving mine. Unbelievable journey. I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” Fisher said.
Fisher described his approach as focused on effort rather than specific techniques or schemes: “I’m just going to come in. I’m going to work my butt off. I’m going to be the hardest worker in the room. Whatever role you give me, I’m going to embrace it and I’m going to run with it. And I’m going to do my best to be the best at it.” He credited linebackers coach Brian Haynes—who coached him at both James Madison University and Indiana—for preparing him for professional football: “He showed me what it’s going to take to be successful, not only at the college level, but the next level… My preparation is everything to me.”
The opportunity play under Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans was another highlight for Fisher: “I’m pumped up. I cannot wait to get work with Head Coach DeMeco Ryans… When you have a defensive coach that is always innovating the defense and kind of has a hand in it, it’s going be an unbelievable experience.”
Reflecting on his transition from James Madison University (JMU) into Big Ten football—and now into professional ranks—Fisher said hard work has defined his career: “That’s kind of story of my life… Having that transition once already —to go new place where I don’t know anybody and I have gain respect—has helped me lot… I have no doubt mind I’ll successful at—to put my head down and as humble possible just hungry learn work impact football team win some football games.”
