The Houston Texans have been busy in the first few days of free agency. Before the legal tampering period began, they traded for wide receiver Christian Kirk. They weren’t done swapping players and picks. The team sent five-time Pro Bowl offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders for picks. They have also made some smaller signings to fill in the gaps on their roster. The front office made another one on Tuesday, re-signing veteran defensive end Mario Edwards Jr. to a two-year deal.
Houston Texans Re-Sign Mario Edwards Jr.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler is reporting it is a two-year, $9.5 million deal for Mario Edwards Jr. The veteran defensive end has spent ten years in the league playing for a variety of teams. Last year was his first year with the Houston Texans, and head coach DeMeco Ryans must have liked what he saw. Edwards Jr. made 12 starts last year, racking up 3.0 sacks, 31 total tackles, eight quarterback hits, and two passes defended.
Every team needs players like Mario Edwards Jr., especially on the defensive line. Keeping legs fresh on the defensive line is often a recipe for success. The Houston Texans have one of the best young pass rushers in Will Anderson Jr., so having a solid rotation of players to keep him fresh is critical.
2025 Outlook
The Houston Texans will undoubtedly be the favorite in the AFC South heading into 2025. However, where will they project to finish in the conference? The offensive line has many questions, especially after sending Tunsil to the nation’s capital. Stroud was under pressure constantly last year, which was a big reason why the team struggled to create any consistency on offense.
The good news for the Texans is that the only team that seems to be a legitimate threat at this point is the Jacksonville Jaguars. They aren’t without their own questions. They have a brand-new coaching staff, but any team with Trevor Lawrence under center will be a threat. This is a solid signing for a team that is trying to maximize their quarterback’s rookie contract. Veterans not only bring experience but a locker-room presence that is helpful for younger teams. Can the Texans dominate the division and compete with the AFC’s elite?
