List of All Houston Texans Free Agents in 2026 Including Nick Chubb, Christian Kirk, Jimmie Ward, and Others
The Houston Texans are gearing up for a crucial offseason, with a whole roster of players set to hit the open market. Veterans, starters, and key role players are all on the brink of free agency in 2026. The choices they make now could really redefine the team’s character on both offense and defense.
Complete Breakdown of 2026 Houston Texans Free Agents
That pressure is heightened by the moment Houston is currently in. The Texans finished the regular season 12–5 and enter the postseason with momentum in their Wild Card matchup today against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who finished 10–7. While the focus is on winning now, the future is already knocking at the door. In total, 22 Texans are set to enter free agency in 2026.
Texans Cap Space and Cut Candidates
Nick Chubb is scheduled for free agency after a previous average annual value of $2.5 million. His resume and name recognition alone make him one of the most intriguing backs on the market, even as teams weigh workload and mileage.
At wide receiver, Christian Kirk brings the most significant prior contract number on the list. His previous AAV of $18 million underscores the significance of his role. If Houston lets him test the market, he would instantly become one of the more notable veteran receivers available.
The secondary could see many changes. Jimmie Ward, who has previously earned $10.508 million per year, carries over a decade of experience. M.J. Stewart ($2.5M AAV) and K’Von Wallace ($1.17M) are also up, creating uncertainty at safety. At the corner, Ja’Marcus Ingram enters free agency as a restricted free agent, while Damon Clark is an unrestricted option at linebacker depth.
Along the defensive front, the list is deep. Denico Autry (35, $10M AAV), Derek Barnett (29, $4M), and Darrell Taylor (28, $4.75M) highlight a pass-rush group that could look very different in 2026. Inside, Sheldon Rankins ($5.25M), Tim Settle ($3M), Foley Fatukasi ($3M), Naquan Jones ($1.835M), and Kurt Hinish ($1.8M) represent experience and rotational value that adds up quickly.
Linebacker decisions loom as well. E.J. Speed ($3.5M), Christian Harris ($1.337M), and Damon Clark ($975,638) are all unrestricted. Each fills a different role, but together they represent depth, versatility, and flexibility in capital allocation.
On the offensive side, the focus will be on the line. Trenton Brown, 32, carries a $1.452 million previous AAV, while Ed Ingram, just 26 years old, stands out with a market value listed at $12,996,313. His age and valuation could make him one of the most closely monitored linemen in the class.
Skill positions round out the group. Dare Ogunbowale ($1.8M), Braxton Berrios ($1.8M), and Tommy Townsend ($3M) each play a specialized role that could be replaced or retained depending on roster priorities.
The Texans sit at No. 23 in offense, with a 70.9 grade in PFSN’s NFL Offense Impact Metric.
The blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent on the free agent list puts Houston at a crucial crossroads. With a playoff game against Pittsburgh taking center stage today, the Texans are battling for success this January, but the choices they make afterward could influence the franchise for years to come.
