HOUSTON – The Houston Texans announced the signing of veteran safety Jalen Mills on Sunday, addressing a need in their secondary following a knee injury to C.J. Gardner-Johnson during practice. The move comes amidst ongoing legal issues for another Texans safety, Jimmie Ward.
Mills, who agreed to terms with Houston after a visit on August 20th, joins the team on a one-year deal, according to sources. he brings nine years of NFL experience, most recently playing for the New York Jets in 2023. His agents, Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey, confirmed the signing to ESPN.
gardner-Johnson sustained his injury during a practice session held at the Greenbrier training camp in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, on Thursday, August 24th. While the severity of the injury is still being evaluated, the Texans are optimistic he could perhaps return for their Week 1 matchup against the Los angeles Rams on September 10th at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
The situation surrounding Jimmie Ward is more complex. He was initially arrested on June 12th in Magnolia,texas (Montgomery County),and charged with a felony – assault of a family member/impeding breath circulation. Court documents indicate the alleged victim filed for an emergency protective order. Ward was released on $30,000 bail.
A subsequent arrest occurred on Thursday, August 24th, when Ward allegedly violated the terms of his release by testing positive for alcohol. He was briefly detained overnight and released on Friday, August 25th. The NFL has initiated a review of the case under its personal conduct policy.
Texans General Manager Nick Caserio and Head Coach DeMeco Ryans have publicly stated they will allow the legal process to unfold before making further comment.Ward is currently on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, further complicating his availability for the start of the season.
Jalen Mills was originally selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL Draft, with the 233rd overall pick. He played four seasons in Philadelphia, contributing as a cornerback and special teams player. He then signed a four-year, $24 million contract with the New England Patriots in 2021, playing in 20 games over two seasons. In his career, Mills has appeared in 115 games, making 91 starts, recording 450 tackles, 59 passes defended, and 8 interceptions.
