4 Affordable Free Agent Signings the Texans Can Still Make

Houston has cap space to add veteran depth at key positions before the draft

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:39pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented football players and action, using bold colors like navy, green, and orange to represent the Texans' offseason moves.The Texans look to add veteran depth and experience through late free agency signings to bolster their young roster.Houston Today

The Houston Texans were active in the early days of free agency, but there are still some affordable veteran options available that could provide depth and experience to their roster. These four free agents could be late additions to help the Texans heading into the 2026 season.

Why it matters

The Texans are looking to build on their progress from last season and take the next step as a playoff contender. Adding the right veteran pieces on team-friendly deals could provide valuable depth and leadership to complement their young core.

The details

The Texans have cap space to add a veteran wide receiver like Keenan Allen to pair with Nico Collins and provide another weapon for QB C.J. Stroud. They could also look at bringing back former No. 1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney as a rotational pass rusher to spell Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter. Cornerback Martin Emerson, if healthy, could provide quality depth in the secondary. And running back Dare Ogunbowale, a former Texans special teams captain, is another familiar face they could re-sign to round out the backfield.

  • The Texans were active in the early days of 2026 NFL free agency.
  • The draft is scheduled for the end of April 2026.

The players

Keenan Allen

A veteran wide receiver who could provide a versatile receiving threat for the Texans' passing attack.

Jadeveon Clowney

The former Texans No. 1 overall pick who could return to Houston as a rotational pass rusher.

Martin Emerson

A cornerback who worked out with the Texans earlier this offseason and could provide depth in the secondary if healthy.

Dare Ogunbowale

A running back and special teams contributor who has previous experience with the Texans.

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What they’re saying

“Maybe the second-year jumps of Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel will be enough for the Texans' passing offense, but a veteran addition like Keenan Allen could be the move that really takes this group over the top.”

— Jared Koch, Author

What’s next

The Texans will continue to monitor the free agent market and evaluate their options as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft at the end of April.

The takeaway

The Texans have the cap space to add some affordable veteran depth that could provide valuable experience and leadership to complement their young core. These four free agents represent low-risk, high-upside options that could help Houston take the next step as a playoff contender.