The Houston Texans added speed to their roster on Saturday. Texans linebacker E.J. Speed has re-signed with Houston to return for the 2026 season.
Speed adds more stability to a defense that was the best in the league last season. The deal is meaningful given how productive he was last year and what it means for the team’s bid to retain as much of its dominant defense as possible.
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Kenneth Levy of SB Nation’s Battle Red Blog discussed what the deal means for the Texans as they look to get back to the postseason and do more damage next year. Here’s what Levy had to say of the new signing.
“On Saturday morning, the Texans agreed to a two-year, $13 million deal with $7.5 million guaranteed with linebacker E. J. Speed, keeping him in Houston through the 2027 season. …
Speed logged 62 tackles and three tackles for loss while operating as Houston’s third linebacker alongside Henry To’oTo’o and Azeez Al-Shaair on the Houston Texans defense. In a scheme that typically featured only two starting linebackers, Speed carved out a clear role as a physical run defender and tone-setting hitter, eventually earning a few starts late in the season. He also dominated on special teams where he played 50% of all snaps.
Speed returning to Houston is also a clear indicator that former 2022 third round pick Christian Harris will pursue other avenues via free agency. Speed took over Harris’ role immediately upon his arrival and set a course for the once heralded linebacker to become an afterthought on defense.”
Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty (2) rushes against the Houston Texans linebacker E.J. Speed (45) in the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Whether or not Speed’s effectiveness stems would translate if not paired with fellow top linebackers Azeez Al-Shaair or Henry To’oTo’o is immaterial. What matters is he is effective in the Houston defense and set to return for another season of NFL ball with the Texans.
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Player retention is one of the more important aspects in sustaining success in football at any level, but certainly in the NFL. Having several players you can depend upon based on prior consistency is huge, and bringing back many of the players from the team’s 2025 squad bodes well for having similar success in 2026 on the defensive side.
The Texans have been active so far this offseason in restructures, impact signings and game changing trades. As they continue their push for a Super Bowl roster, it is fair to assume their aggressive offseason is not done.