The Houston Texans have agreed to terms on a contract with first-round draft pick Whitney Mercilus, the team announced on its official website Wednesday.
Contract details aren't known at this time.
Mercilus, who's 6-foot-4 and 254 pounds, was a force at defensive end for Illinois, leading the nation in sacks (16) and forced fumbles (nine). He will be moved to outside linebacker in Houston's 3-4 scheme.
The team's official site reported Mercilus is expected to form a three-man outside linebacker rotation with Connor Barwin and Brooks Reed. Houston has signed six of its eight draft picks, with only third-rounders DeVier Posey and Brandon Brooks remaining unsigned.
The Texans chose Mercilus with the 26th overall pick in April's draft. He will be counted on to bring the edge-rushing presence lost when Mario Williams signed a big-money deal with the Buffalo Bills in March.
UPDATE: Mercilus' deal will pay him $7.634 million, including $6.55 million guaranteed, according to John McClain of the Houston Chronicle. McClain also reported that Mercilus will receive a $3.99 million signing bonus.
