The NFL offseason is filled with surprises, and that's exactly what the Houston Texans experienced at the beginning of the month. On June 2, veteran cornerback Ronald Darby surprisingly announced his NFL retirement, coming less than three months after joining the Texans on a one-year, $2 million contract.
Darby was supposed to add veteran experience to Houston's secondary, and now the team is left scrambling for a replacement as the mandatory minicamp is going on. The Texans already worked out former first-round CB Damon Arnette Jr. on Monday, and now they're turning their attention to another available name.
Texans to Work Out CB Duke Shelley After Ronald Darby Retirement
On Wednesday, KPRC 2 Houston's Aaron Wilson reported that the Texans are working out free agent cornerback Duke Shelley. The former 2019 sixth-round pick is still looking for work after being released from the New York Giants' practice squad in October.
If the Texans want an experienced Darby replacement, Shelley could be their guy. The ex-Kansas State Wildcat has played 53 regular-season games (11 starts) and a trio of postseason contests throughout his six-year NFL career, which includes playing games with the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, and Los Angeles Rams before his Giants run.
Although he's never been the best player at his position, Shelley has still amassed 70 solo tackles, 14 broken-up passes, one interception, and a fumble recovery. He also played to elite Pro Football Focus grades of 82.9 and 86.4 for defense and coverage, respectively, in 2022, showing that he does have the tools to be a difference-making disruptor.
It's going to take a big effort for Shelley to prove to the Texans that he can still be that player, though. He's been held to only 12 appearances across the last two seasons, including just one game with the Giants last year. A lot can change in a few seasons, and it wouldn't be shocking to imagine that Shelley might be a shell of his former self.
Nevertheless, the only way for the Texans to know what kind of player Shelley can be is by giving him a tryout. If he fails to impress during the opportunity, it isn't a big deal. But if he does step up and turn back the clock, the Texans could have a reliable veteran ballhawk on their hands in case any of their starters get hurt or need a breather during a game.
Texans fans might have a better idea of Shelley's outlook with the team after minicamp concludes on Wednesday.