The Houston Texans, led by quarterback CJ Stroud, are preparing for the 2025 season with the goal of establishing themselves as contenders in the AFC. Following an impressive 2024 NFL season that included a Wild Card Round win over the Los Angeles Chargers, the team is looking to strengthen its offense. In line with that goal, the roster has secured the return of a former Cincinnati Bengals player who once played alongside quarterback Joe Burrow.
Houston front office is making it a priority to improve the offensive line, which allowed 52 catches last season, and has made changes to the coaching staff, including hiring Nick Caley as offensive coordinator. The experience of sharing a roster with Burrow is an important parameter in retaining a player who could be key to the offense.
At wide receiver, the Texans are evaluating options to strengthen the area, considering both retaining existing talent and adding new players through the draft or free agency. The goal is to provide Stroud with the tools necessary to maintain and exceed the offensive level achieved in 2024.
Who is the player returning to the Texans?
The player returning to the Texans from Stroud is none other than tight end Irv Smith Jr., who has agreed to return to Houston on a one-year contract, according to information provided by NFL insider Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Smith joined the team in September 2024 as part of the practice squad and was promoted to the active roster in December. During the 2024 season, he appeared in five games, accumulating 85 offensive plays and 15 special teams plays, while recording no receptions.
Smith’s NFL career
Prior to joining the Texans, Smith had started his NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings, a franchise where he was selected in the second round of the 2019 draft. He then played for the Burrow’s Bengals until arriving in Houston. In total, he has played in 54 games as a professional, recording 109 receptions for 973 yards and 10 touchdowns.