The Houston Texans are preparing for a major change on their defensive line as seasoned defensive end Denico Autry is expected to leave the team with NFL free agency approaching next week. This departure would end Autry’s two-year spell with the Texans and signal a shift in their defensive lineup moving forward, amid ongoing adjustments to improve team performance.
Discontent with Role Fuels Autry’s Departure
Sources reveal that Autry’s dissatisfaction with his role in the Texans’ defensive setup during last season significantly contributed to his anticipated exit. Jonathan M. Alexander of The Houston Chronicle conveyed that a return to the Texans appears unlikely for Autry.
“Denico Autry is not expected to return to the Texans. He was unhappy with his role last season, according to two league sources with knowledge of his thinking. But there’s a chance Derek Barnett could return.” ? Jonathan M. Alexander, Sports Journalist
Injury-Hampered Season and Performance Summary
Entering his 36th year, Autry primarily acted as a rotational player on the Texans’ defensive line, but his 2025 season was disrupted by recurring injuries, which limited his presence across numerous games. Despite this, he made contributions in the 12 contests he participated in, tallying eight tackles, 3.5 sacks, and forcing one fumble. His role was largely secondary to star pass rushers Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter on the edge.
Derek Barnett’s Potential Return to Fill the Void
While Autry’s departure is widely expected, the Texans are reportedly considering the return of veteran defensive end Derek Barnett for the 2026 season. Barnett completed his second full year with Houston in 2025, displaying more consistent availability and producing 5.0 sacks along with 21 combined tackles. His return could help cover some of the gaps left by Autry’s exit and maintain critical depth behind the team’s leading edge defenders.
Texans’ Focus on Defensive Line Depth Amid Upcoming Free Agency
Maintaining strong situational depth beyond the core pass rushers like Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter remains essential for Houston’s defense to compete at a high level. The Texans are expected to pursue acquisitions of additional veteran defensive linemen in the forthcoming free agency period to support this strategy and reinforce their defensive front.
