The Houston Texans have signed Chris Braswell, a former second-round draft pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, to their practice squad. This move comes as the Texans look to bolster their pass-rushing options ahead of the NFL season, particularly after injuries have affected their defensive-end depth.
Braswell, who was selected 57th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft following a successful college career at Alabama, was waived by Tampa Bay during their final roster cuts on August 30, 2026. In his two seasons with the Buccaneers, he appeared in 34 games, recording 48 tackles and 2.5 sacks, but did not secure a starting position.
The Texans are not expecting Braswell to be a finished product, but rather a player with potential that they can develop. His final season at Alabama showcased his abilities, as he recorded eight sacks and ten tackles for loss, indicating the talent that led to his initial draft selection.
In Houston, Braswell will not be required to take on a starting role immediately. Instead, he can focus on specific tasks such as setting the edge and pursuing the quarterback, while established players like Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter handle more complex assignments. Braswell's familiarity with Anderson, a former teammate at Alabama, may also aid his transition into the Texans' defensive system.
The Texans' current roster includes notable edge rushers like Anderson, Hunter, and Jadeveon Clowney, but injuries have impacted their depth. With players like Dylan Horton and Ali Gaye on reserve, the addition of Braswell could provide valuable support if the need arises during the season.
