The Houston Texans have bolstered their roster by signing former Cincinnati Bengals players Trent Brown and Sheldon Rankins. Brown, an experienced offensive tackle, faced a challenging season with Cincinnati due to a knee injury that ultimately ended his season early. Meanwhile, Rankins, a defensive tackle, also struggled with injuries, appearing in only seven games, hampered by health setbacks including viral meningitis.

In a separate development, former Bengals running back Joe Mixon has made an impact in his first season with the Texans, racking up over 1,000 rushing yards for the fifth time in his career, showcasing his consistent ability to perform at a high level in the NFL.

Trent Brown has joined the Houston Texans on a one-year deal worth up to $3 million, marking yet another former Cincinnati Bengals player to find a new home in Houston.

Brown’s addition follows that of Sheldon Rankins, who was recently released by the Bengals. With Brown's successful recovery from a torn patellar tendon that sidelined him last season, the Texans are banking on his experience to bolster their offensive line. Meanwhile, rookie Amarius Mims is set to take over the right tackle position for Cincinnati.

Sheldon Rankins has signed a one-year contract worth $7 million to return to the Houston Texans, marking his second stint with the team. In his previous season with Houston, he recorded six sacks, a notable achievement for the former first-round draft pick. This move comes as the Texans look to revamp their defensive tackle position, having released other key players like Mario Edwards and Foley Fatukasi, who are now free agents. Rankins' time with the Cincinnati Bengals was hampered by injuries and illness, leading to just seven appearances. The Texans hope his return will bolster their defensive line.

The NFL Combine serves as a critical juncture, not just for draft prospects but also for free agency discussions among coaches and agents. Houston Texans GM Nick Caserio and coach DeMeco Ryans focused on features like improving the defensive line, offensive line, and wide receiver positions. With key players like Mario Edwards and Foley Fatukasi expected to hit free agency, the Texans are eyeing potential signings like Sheldon Rankins. Additionally, while there was speculation regarding a trade for Deebo Samuel, the Texans' interest seems minimal as they are exploring other veteran WR options. Offensively, the Texans plan to bolster their line, likely bringing in two new guards, with one potentially via the draft.

Heading into the 2025 NFL season, the Detroit Lions are grappling with uncertainty on their defensive line depth as key players return from injuries. With decisions looming on free-agent contracts, the team may explore adding depth in free agency. Veteran Sheldon Rankins, a former first-round pick, is a potential target. Having struggled with various injuries recently, he recorded limited stats in his recent stints. The Lions' strategy will likely hinge on retaining injured players like Levi Onwuzurike and John Cominsky, with Onwuzurike potentially seeking a lucrative deal elsewhere.

Rankins, known for his pass-rushing ability, might be signed for a low-risk one-year deal, contingent on the Lions' injury updates on Alim McNeill and Mekhi Wingo. The Lions are poised to make strategic choices as they not only build their roster but also address their injuries to ensure a competitive edge next season.