Texans Begin Offseason Roster Reload with Reserve/Future Signings
HOUSTON - With the offseason officially underway, the Houston Texans are getting a head start on roster building, locking in a series of reserve/future contracts aimed at adding depth and competition heading into 2026. These signings don’t make headlines like blockbuster trades or top-tier free agent pickups, but they’re the kind of moves that can quietly shape the back end of a roster-and sometimes, uncover a gem.
Let’s break down the new additions and what they bring to the table.
Solomon Byrd: A Familiar Face Returns
Defensive end Solomon Byrd is back in the fold. A former seventh-round pick out of USC, Byrd saw limited action last season but made the most of it, registering two tackles and a quarterback hit in his lone appearance.
Before entering the league, Byrd made waves at USC after transferring from Wyoming. He earned All-Pac-12 honorable mention honors and led the Trojans with 11 tackles for loss.
He also forced four fumbles-third-most in the nation-and tallied 49 total tackles and six sacks in his final college campaign. Byrd’s motor and knack for disrupting plays in the backfield give him a shot to carve out a larger role this offseason.
Kaevon Merriweather: Smart, Physical Safety with Upside
Safety Kaevon Merriweather is also joining the Texans on a reserve/future deal. He ended last season on the practice squad injured list but brings a strong pedigree from both college and the pros.
An undrafted free agent out of Iowa, Merriweather earned All-American honors in college and has spent time with the Buccaneers and Lions. At 6-foot, 212 pounds, he’s a physical presence in the secondary and has compiled 38 career tackles, one sack, a fumble recovery, and a pair of pass breakups in the NFL. Health permitting, he’ll be one to watch in camp.
Eli Cox: Depth in the Trenches
The Texans are also bringing back center Eli Cox. The Kentucky product spent the season on the practice squad and now gets a chance to compete for a roster spot heading into 2026. Cox is a versatile interior lineman who offers developmental upside and depth at a position where continuity and reliability are crucial.
Brandon Hill: A Comeback Story in Progress
Safety Brandon Hill is another familiar name rejoining the Texans. A seventh-round pick out of Pitt, Hill had his rookie campaign derailed by a torn ACL suffered in the preseason.
Now healthy, he’s looking to reboot his NFL journey. Known for his range and physicality in college, Hill brings energy to the safety room and will be eager to prove himself after a lost year.
Sidy Sow: Experience on the Interior
Former Patriots offensive lineman Sidy Sow is also headed to Houston. Sow has 28 career games under his belt and made one start last season against Jacksonville.
A big-bodied guard with starting experience, Sow adds veteran depth and could push for a rotational role on the interior. He’s the kind of addition that bolsters competition in the trenches-a must for any team looking to sustain success.
Junior Tafuna: High-Motor Defensive Tackle
Utah’s Junior Tafuna is another intriguing addition. A former All-Pac-12 selection, Tafuna made a name for himself with his relentless motor and disruptive play on the interior.
He also earned an invite to the Senior Bowl, a strong indicator of his potential at the next level. His ability to penetrate gaps and hold his ground makes him a player worth monitoring as the Texans build out their defensive front.
Xavier Thomas: Edge Depth with Upside
Edge rusher Xavier Thomas, who played at Clemson and had a stint with the Cardinals, is also joining the Texans. Thomas has the tools-speed, strength, and a quick first step-to be a factor off the edge. He’ll be looking to find consistency and carve out a niche in Houston’s rotation.
Jared Wayne: Size and Hands at Receiver
Wide receiver Jared Wayne, another former Pitt standout, is getting another shot after appearing in four games and catching two passes for 20 yards against the 49ers. At 6-foot-3, Wayne brings size and reliable hands to the Texans’ receiving corps. He’s not flashy, but he’s the kind of steady presence who can earn trust in the short-to-intermediate game.
Josh Kelly: Local Product, Big Opportunity
Rounding out the current wave of signings is wide receiver Josh Kelly from Texas Tech. Kelly brings local ties and a productive college resume. He’ll be aiming to make the most of this opportunity as he enters a crowded but open competition for depth roles at wideout.
What’s Next?
Expect more of these moves as the Texans continue to shape their 90-man offseason roster. These reserve/future deals may not grab headlines, but they’re a critical part of building a sustainable, competitive roster. For players like Byrd, Merriweather, and Hill, this is a second chance-or in some cases, the first real one-to show they belong.
And for the Texans, it’s about finding those hidden contributors who can step up when it matters most.