As the 2026 NFL free agency window approaches, the Houston Texans find themselves staring down a critical offseason. With 22 players set to hit the open market on March 11, GM Nick Caserio and head coach DeMeco Ryans have some big decisions to make - and not a lot of time to make them.
Here’s the full list of Texans set to become unrestricted free agents:
- Christian Kirk
- Jimmie Ward
- Denico Autry
- Sheldon Rankins
- Derek Barnett
- E.J.
Speed
- Foley Fatukasi
- Tommy Townsend
- Tim Settle Jr.
- Nick Chubb
- M.J.
Stewart
- Braxton Berrios
- Dare Ogunbowale
- Ed Ingram
- Kurt Hinish
- Naquan Jones
- Leki Fotu
- K’Von Wallace
- Christian Harris
- Damone Clark
- Ja’Marcus Ingram
- Trent Brown
That’s a significant chunk of the roster - and not just depth guys, either. There are key contributors in the trenches, on the back end of the defense, and even some offensive weapons. The Texans aren’t just managing a cap sheet this offseason; they’re managing continuity and identity.
Big Names, Big Questions
Among the players potentially on the move, three names stand out as particularly tough losses if Houston can’t work out new deals: defensive tackles Tim Settle Jr. and Sheldon Rankins, and offensive guard Ed Ingram. All three have played meaningful snaps and made their presence felt in the physical battles up front. Losing any of them would leave a noticeable void - especially for a team that’s built its recent resurgence on toughness and control at the line of scrimmage.
It’s safe to assume the Texans' front office has already begun prioritizing who stays and who walks. That process is never easy, especially when you’ve got a locker room as tight-knit and competitive as Houston’s has become under Ryans. But with a young, ascending core and playoff expectations growing, tough choices are part of the job.
Let’s take a closer look at two veterans who might be heading elsewhere this spring - not because they haven’t contributed, but because the timing and circumstances suggest it’s the right move for both sides.
Jimmie Ward (S, Two Years in Houston)
When DeMeco Ryans took the reins in Houston, one of his first personnel moves was to bring in a familiar face: Jimmie Ward. The veteran safety followed Ryans from San Francisco on a two-year, $13 million deal, later extended for a third season. The idea was clear - Ward would provide leadership, experience, and a bridge between Ryans’ defensive vision and the young talent being developed in Houston.
And for a time, that’s exactly what he brought. Ward was a vocal presence in the locker room and a steadying force on the field when available. In 20 games over three seasons, he totaled 98 tackles, forced a fumble, and snagged three interceptions - including a pick-six in 2024 that helped swing momentum in a key game.
But availability has been the issue. Ward played in just 39% of possible games during his Texans tenure, with injuries and off-field issues keeping him sidelined more often than not.
At 35 years old this July, the physical toll is catching up. Meanwhile, the Texans’ secondary has emerged as one of the league’s most dynamic units - young, fast, and deep.
There’s no question Ward played a role in shaping that group. But with the defense thriving and his best football likely behind him, this feels like the natural point for both sides to move on. Ward’s leadership won’t be forgotten, but his roster spot may be better served developing the next wave of playmakers.
Dare Ogunbowale (RB, Four Years in Houston)
Now this one stings a little more - not because it’s the wrong move, but because of what Dare Ogunbowale has meant to the Texans in moments that mattered.
Since arriving in 2022, Ogunbowale has been the kind of player every team needs: dependable, versatile, and ready when the spotlight hits. Whether stepping in as an emergency kicker in that unforgettable 39-37 win over Tampa Bay in 2023, or hauling in the game-winning touchdown against Jacksonville in Week 4 of 2024, Ogunbowale has delivered in clutch situations.
And who could forget his go-ahead touchdown run against Kansas City in Week 14 this past season? That was vintage Dare - stepping up when the team needed a spark.
But football is a numbers game, and the numbers in Houston’s backfield are starting to stack up. With Joe Mixon, Woody Marks, Jawhar Jordan, and British Brooks already in the fold - and potential additions coming via the draft or free agency - the snaps just aren’t there anymore.
Ogunbowale turns 32 this spring and has carved out a reputation as a reliable depth piece. That’s valuable - just maybe not in Houston anymore. A mutual parting makes sense, giving him a chance to find a better opportunity elsewhere and allowing the Texans to continue building around their younger backs.
Looking Ahead
This is the kind of offseason that can shape the next phase of a franchise. Houston has momentum, a young quarterback to build around, and a defense that looks ready to contend. But keeping that momentum going means making the right calls in free agency - not just re-signing talent, but knowing when to let go.
Jimmie Ward and Dare Ogunbowale gave the Texans meaningful contributions, leadership, and unforgettable moments. But as the roster evolves, so too must the decisions. Expect Caserio and Ryans to be strategic, forward-thinking, and - above all - focused on building a team that can compete deep into January.
The countdown to March 11 is on.