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Houston Texans have made changes to their defensive roster by releasing veteran linebacker Christian Kirksey and slot cornerback Desmond King, according to DJ Bien-Aime of ESPN.
Christian Kirksey, noted for his leadership role as a team captain during the 2022 season, was a significant contributor to the Texans’ defense, and was nominated for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award.
Kirksey joined the Texans in 2021 and later earned a two-year extension worth $10 million. Last year Kirksey showcased his versatility with stats including 124 tackles, 3 sacks, 7 tackles for loss, 7 quarterback hits, and 2 interceptions.
Update: #Texans cut starting LB Christian Kirksey, per @MikeGarafolo
Kirksey started 29 games over the past two seasons for Houston and was team captain last year.
He recorded 124 tackles, 3 sacks, 7 tackles for loss, 7 QB Hits and 2 INTs last year. pic.twitter.com/EOldexfTIQ
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) August 28, 2023
Desmond King’s release wasn’t expected considering given his consistent presence in preseason games where he started and his active participation with the first-team defense throughout the training camp.
King had established himself as a reliable slot cornerback and a valuable asset in the return game throughout his career.
The Texans have a few more moves to make until they reach the final 53-man roster but those two players will probably land elsewhere before Week 1.