The Houston Texans were dealt a disheartening defeat in Week 2, dropping to 0-2 on the season. The slow start to the season has resulted in at least one notable move, with KPRC 2 Houston's Aaron Wilson reporting that the Texans had brought back defensive back Jalen Mills on a practice squad deal.
Mills was with Houston throughout the preseason before becoming a final roster cut at the end of August. With the defense needing a boost now, the Texans brought back a familiar face in hopes of finding surprise production.
Texans Bring Back Super Bowl Champion Jalen Mills After Early-Season Struggles
Although some Texans fans are likely excited to see the "Green Goblin" back in town, his signing is a bit underwhelming when it comes to fixing Houston's current issues. The franchise is still playing at a high level defensively and has little concern with its starting corners. While Mills could push for a depth or special teams role, it seems unlikely that the veteran disruptor will take to the field in a meaningful capacity soon.
The Texans' issues have clearly been centered around the quarterback and an offense that cannot get out of its own way. C.J. Stroud looks like the worst version of himself in the first two weeks of the season, and the offensive line still isn't providing the necessary protection to help him thrive. Defensively, there is so much put on the shoulders of the unit that it explains the 0-2 start and why there is already a heavy level of frustration among the Houston fan base.
Mills is an experienced player who has been a part of many different types of locker rooms. This is the value that he can bring to a roster that is already being challenged two weeks into the year. If there is a spot for Mills on this roster, it is as an experienced leader who can provide depth and leadership for less experienced players, even if he doesn't play all that often.
While a reserve piece being in a leadership role might seem an odd concept, it is important to remember the defensive back's accomplishments, which include starting with the Philadelphia Eagles for parts of three seasons and being a key contributor in a Super Bowl run. This earns him a level of respect and a voice in the locker room, even on as talented a team as the Texans.