Texans Sign Jalen Mills Amid Safety Group Turmoil

The Houston Texans have signed veteran safety Jalen Mills to bolster their secondary, which has been weakened by injuries and legal issues. C.J. Gardner-Johnson is recovering from a knee injury and may return by Week 1, while rookie Jaylen Reed is expected to miss about three weeks with an ankle injury. Jimmie Ward, still on the physically unable to perform list following offseason foot surgery, was recently arrested for violating a release order related to a felony domestic violence charge and is under NFL review. Mills, a nine-year NFL veteran with experience on the Eagles, Patriots, and Jets, offers versatility and reliability, having started eight games for the Jets in 2024. His familiarity with defensive systems similar to coach DeMeco Ryans' scheme should facilitate his integration. Mills is expected to provide immediate support for the Texans' depleted safety corps.