The Houston Texans have signed veteran safety Jalen Mills amid ongoing challenges in their secondary.
Why it matters: The addition of Mills comes at a critical time for the Texans as they navigate injuries and legal issues within their safety corps.
With C.J. Gardner-Johnson nursing a knee injury sustained during practice, securing an experienced player like Mills helps bolster the team's depth and reliability in the defensive backfield.
Gardner-Johnson is expected to return for Week 1 against the Rams, but having Mills provides essential insurance should further complications arise.
What’s new: Mills, who has played nine seasons in the NFL, brings a wealth of experience and versatility that can benefit the Texans' defense immediately.
He has appeared in 115 career games with 91 starts, recording 59 passes defended, eight interceptions, and 450 tackles over his career.
His most recent stint was with the New York Jets, following a four-year contract with the New England Patriots, where he earned recognition for his playmaking ability.
Yes, but: The Texans face significant hurdles beyond just injuries; safety Jimmie Ward's legal troubles also pose an issue for the team.
Ward was arrested twice in two months, first for felony assault and later after violating his release conditions by testing positive for alcohol. Both incidents are under review by the NFL, complicating his availability for the upcoming season.
General manager Nick Caserio and head coach DeMeco Ryans have both stated their intention to allow the legal process to unfold before making any decisions regarding Ward's status.
What to watch: As the Texans prepare for the season, the interplay between their health and legal situations will be pivotal in determining the effectiveness of their secondary.
With Gardner-Johnson likely returning soon, the combination of him, Mills, and the potential involvement of Ward could provide a formidable defensive front—but only if all parties are available and focused.
The bottom line: Adding Jalen Mills provides the Texans with a necessary layer of security in their secondary amidst uncertainty.
With a mix of young talent and seasoned veterans, Mills’ signing may help stabilize a team looking to build on previous performances while navigating the complexities of player conduct and injuries.
The Houston Texans have signed veteran safety Jalen Mills amid ongoing challenges in their secondary.
Why it matters: The addition of Mills comes at a critical time for the Texans as they navigate injuries and legal issues within their safety corps.
With C.J. Gardner-Johnson nursing a knee injury sustained during practice, securing an experienced player like Mills helps bolster the team's depth and reliability in the defensive backfield.
Gardner-Johnson is expected to return for Week 1 against the Rams, but having Mills provides essential insurance should further complications arise.
What’s new: Mills, who has played nine seasons in the NFL, brings a wealth of experience and versatility that can benefit the Texans' defense immediately.
He has appeared in 115 career games with 91 starts, recording 59 passes defended, eight interceptions, and 450 tackles over his career.
His most recent stint was with the New York Jets, following a four-year contract with the New England Patriots, where he earned recognition for his playmaking ability.
Yes, but: The Texans face significant hurdles beyond just injuries; safety Jimmie Ward's legal troubles also pose an issue for the team.
Ward was arrested twice in two months, first for felony assault and later after violating his release conditions by testing positive for alcohol. Both incidents are under review by the NFL, complicating his availability for the upcoming season.
General manager Nick Caserio and head coach DeMeco Ryans have both stated their intention to allow the legal process to unfold before making any decisions regarding Ward's status.
What to watch: As the Texans prepare for the season, the interplay between their health and legal situations will be pivotal in determining the effectiveness of their secondary.
With Gardner-Johnson likely returning soon, the combination of him, Mills, and the potential involvement of Ward could provide a formidable defensive front—but only if all parties are available and focused.
The bottom line: Adding Jalen Mills provides the Texans with a necessary layer of security in their secondary amidst uncertainty.
With a mix of young talent and seasoned veterans, Mills’ signing may help stabilize a team looking to build on previous performances while navigating the complexities of player conduct and injuries.
