Houston Texans Sign Former Eagles Safety Reed Blankenship

The Texans make their first major free agency move, bringing in the ex-Philadelphia defensive back.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Houston Texans have agreed to a deal with former Philadelphia Eagles safety Reed Blankenship, the team's first major signing of the 2026 free agency period. Blankenship, a 26-year-old defensive back, spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Eagles after going undrafted out of Middle Tennessee State in 2022.

Why it matters

The Texans are looking to bolster their secondary after a disappointing 6-10 season in 2025. Blankenship provides experienced depth and competition at the safety position, as the team aims to improve its pass defense and make a push for the playoffs in the competitive AFC South division.

The details

Blankenship appeared in 48 games for the Eagles over the past four seasons, making 12 starts. He recorded 106 total tackles, 3 interceptions, and 12 passes defended during his time in Philadelphia. The Texans are hoping the young defensive back can bring that same level of production to their secondary as they look to turn things around in 2026.

  • Blankenship signed with the Texans on March 9, 2026.

The players

Reed Blankenship

A 26-year-old safety who spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles after going undrafted out of Middle Tennessee State in 2022.

Houston Texans

An NFL team based in Houston, Texas that plays in the AFC South division. The Texans are looking to improve their secondary and make a push for the playoffs in 2026 after a 6-10 season in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Reed is a young, talented defensive back who has shown the ability to make plays in the NFL. We're excited to add him to our secondary and see what he can do to help us improve our pass defense.”

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

What’s next

The Texans will look to integrate Blankenship into their defensive scheme during the offseason program and training camp as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Texans' signing of Reed Blankenship represents an early free agency move aimed at shoring up their secondary and positioning the team for a potential playoff push in the upcoming season.