The Houston Texans have made a strategic move to strengthen their secondary by signing veteran defensive back Jalen Mills, a former New York Jets safety on Sunday (August 10). This acquisition comes at a critical time for the Texans, who are struggling with injuries and legal issues in their safety room, making Mills’ experience and versatility a valuable addition to the roster.

Details about Houston’s depleted secondary

The Houston Texans’ secondary has faced significant challenges this offseason. Safety CJ Gardner-Johnson suffered a knee injury during training camp, casting doubt on his availability for the start of the 2025 season, though there’s hope he could return by Week 1.

Additionally, veteran safety Jimmie Ward is sidelined due to legal issues, further straining the team’s depth. With rookie Jaylen Reed also dealing with a minor injury, Houston was left with only three safeties, Calen Bullock, MJ Stewart, and Russ Yeast, before the signing of Jalen Mills.

Mills, a 31-year-old ninth-year veteran is expected to bring much-needed experience to the team.

Jalen Mills’ form

Known as “The Green Goblin,” Jalen Mills has built a solid NFL career since being drafted in the seventh round by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2016.

Over 115 games, with 91 starts, he has recorded 406 tackles, eight interceptions, 53 pass deflections, and two forced fumbles.

In 2024 with the Jets, Mills played nine games, starting eight, and contributed 44 tackles, six pass breakups, one interception, and one forced fumble. His ability to play both safety and cornerback offers Houston valuable flexibility.

Mills’ standout season was in 2017 with the Eagles, where he posted a career-high three interceptions, 14 passes defended, and 64 tackles, helping Philadelphia win Super Bowl LII. His three seasons with the New England Patriots, starting 34 games.

Fitting into Houston’s defense

Jalen Mills’ signing will reunite him with Texans defensive coordinator Matt Burke, who was with the Eagles during Mills’ tenure, though they didn’t work directly together. Mills’ familiarity with similar defensive schemes should aid his integration into Houston’s system, which employs a two-high safety look.

With Gardner-Johnson and Ward unavailable, Mills is likely to compete with MJ Stewart for a starting role alongside second-year safety Calen Bullock, who started 13 games in 2024.

Mills’ versatility is a major asset. In 2024 with the Jets, he played multiple positions, including boundary corner, slot corner, free safety, and even outside linebacker, earning an 84.1 run-defense grade from Pro Football Focus. This adaptability could be crucial for Houston’s defense.