Houston Texans Busy in Free Agency

Team makes several key signings and re-signings ahead of new season

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Houston Texans have been active in the early days of NFL free agency, clearing out cap space and signing several new players to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. The team has made a number of moves, including re-signing some of their own free agents and adding new talent from around the league.

Why it matters

As the Texans look to build on their performance from last season and compete in the AFC South, these free agency moves will be crucial in shaping their roster and determining their outlook for the 2026 campaign.

The details

The Texans have made several notable moves so far in free agency, including re-signing wide receiver Brandin Cooks to a 3-year extension and adding former Pro Bowl linebacker Lavonte David on a 2-year deal. They've also brought back defensive tackle Maliek Collins and cornerback Desmond King on new contracts. In addition, the team has cleared significant cap space by parting ways with veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor and wide receiver Randall Cobb.

  • The Texans' free agency activity has taken place over the first week of the new league year, which began on March 15, 2026.
  • Brandin Cooks re-signed with the Texans on a 3-year deal on March 16.
  • Lavonte David joined the Texans on a 2-year contract on March 17.
  • Maliek Collins and Desmond King re-signed with the team on March 18 and 19 respectively.

The players

Brandin Cooks

A veteran wide receiver who has been a key part of the Texans' offense the past few seasons.

Lavonte David

An experienced linebacker who was a Pro Bowler with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and will now join the Texans' defense.

Maliek Collins

A defensive tackle who has re-signed with the Texans after spending the past two seasons with the team.

Desmond King

A cornerback who has agreed to a new contract to remain with the Texans.

Tyrod Taylor

The veteran quarterback who has been released by the Texans, clearing cap space.

Randall Cobb

The wide receiver who has also been released by the Texans as part of their cap-clearing moves.

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What they’re saying

“Brandin has been a consistent playmaker for us, and we're excited to have him back as we continue to build our roster for next season.”

— Nick Caserio, General Manager, Houston Texans (Houston Chronicle)

“Lavonte is a proven veteran who will bring a lot of experience and leadership to our defense. We're confident he can help us take the next step as a team.”

— Lovie Smith, Head Coach, Houston Texans (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

The Texans will continue to be active in free agency in the coming weeks, looking to add more talent to their roster ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft in April.

The takeaway

The Texans' early free agency moves demonstrate their commitment to retaining key players while also bringing in new talent to improve the team. These signings and re-signings will be crucial as the Texans aim to build on their progress from last season and compete for a playoff spot in the AFC South.