Texans Face Tough Decisions on 19 Free Agents

Retaining key defensive pieces is top priority for Houston this offseason

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Houston Texans have 19 players set to hit free agency in the coming weeks, and the front office will have to carefully evaluate which ones to re-sign and which to let walk. While the team is expected to retain most of its core, there are a handful of notable free agents that will command attention, including defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins, offensive lineman Trent Brown, and punter Cameron Johnston.

Why it matters

The Texans are coming off a strong 2025 season and are positioned to make a playoff push in 2026. Retaining as much of their core as possible, especially on the defensive side of the ball, will be crucial to their continued success. However, the team will also have to weigh the cost of re-signing certain players against the long-term salary cap implications.

The details

The Texans have 19 total free agents, with several key starters and contributors among them. Defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins, offensive lineman Trent Brown, and punter Cameron Johnston are considered must-re-signs, as they were vital to the team's success in 2025. Other players like safety M.J. Stewart, linebacker Neville Hewitt, and defensive end Charles Omenihu are also of some importance to retain. However, the team may let go of players like running back Nick Chubb, wide receiver Christian Kirk, and defensive tackle Denico Autry due to age, injury history, or the emergence of younger talent.

  • Free agency opens in March 2026.

The players

Sheldon Rankins

A veteran defensive tackle who was an underrated key piece of the Texans' dominant front seven, starting every game and logging 35 tackles with five tackles for loss.

Trent Brown

The 27-year-old offensive lineman filled in as the Texans' full-time starting right tackle down the stretch, helping solidify the offensive line.

Cameron Johnston

The Texans' 2022 All-Pro punter has been one of the best at his position the past two seasons, making him a worthwhile investment for the team's special teams.

M.J. Stewart

The starting safety was productive before going down with a quad injury, and the Texans should have interest in bringing him back if healthy.

Neville Hewitt

A depth linebacker who was relatively productive in limited opportunities, making him a cheap option to bring back on the defense.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Texans face a critical offseason in terms of retaining their core talent, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Prioritizing re-signing key starters like Rankins, Brown, and Johnston will be crucial to the team's continued success, while also making tough decisions on aging or injury-prone veterans. How Houston navigates this free agent class could significantly impact their outlook for the 2026 season and beyond.