Houston QB Keenum to join Texans

"It's really unbelievable," Keenum said Monday on the Houston campus. "I'm extremely excited for so many reasons."

Keenum was disappointed that he wasn't drafted. But when the Texans called on Saturday night, he immediately related it to his transition from high school to college.

Houston was the only school that offered him a scholarship after a stellar career at Wylie High School in Abilene. Keenum rewarded Houston's faith by becoming the Football Bowl Subdivision's career leader in yards passing (19,217) and touchdown passes (155), and he's the only FBS quarterback to throw for more than 5,000 yards in three different seasons.

"That's just kind of part of my identity," Keenum said. "Coming out of high school, I had one scholarship offer. I said that before the draft that all I need is one chance, and I got my one chance here, with a great organization and great coaches."

The Texans were down to third-string quarterback T.J. Yates by the end of last season. They still finished 10-6, won their division and earned their first playoff berth. Matt Leinart, last year's backup until he broke his collarbone, is expected to sign with Oakland.

Matt Schaub said recently that he's almost fully recovered from a broken right foot, and Yates will be the backup in 2012. Schaub called Keenum on Saturday night to welcome him into the mix.

Keenum also felt comfortable with coach Gary Kubiak and the staff after a recent 30-minute workout at Reliant Stadium.

"I clicked really well over there," Keenum said. "It just felt right. I'm really excited it's happening this way."

Keenum tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in the third game of the 2010 season. Houston appealed for a medical redshirt and Keenum was granted one more season to take aim at the NCAA's career passing records.

He not only shattered the marks, he also guided Houston to unprecedented heights in 2011. The Cougars won their first 12 games and broke into the top 10 in the Bowl Championship Series standings. Houston was headed for its first BCS berth — and the first for Conference USA — until losing at home to Southern Miss in the league championship game on Dec. 3.