Texans Execute Protocol: Veteran Linebacker Tryouts After Injury Event
The Houston Texans defense experienced a system failure on the first day of training camp. Linebacker Jake Hansen suffered a foot injury requiring a cart exit. The extent of the downtime remains unquantified.
Within 24 hours, the organization initiated a replacement protocol. Two veteran free agents were brought in for evaluation.
Evaluation Candidates: Sione Takitaki and Jahlani Tavai
According to KPRC2's Aaron Wilson, the Texans worked out linebackers Sione Takitaki and Jahlani Tavai. Both are currently free agents after playing during the 2025 season.
This move follows a pattern of proactive roster optimization. On Thursday, Houston evaluated running backs Hassan Haskins and Alexander Mattison. The shift to defense signals a data-driven search for the optimal replacement in the linebacker unit.
No signing is imminent. The organization is scanning the open market for a solution to the Hansen gap.
Candidate Profiles: Experience and Metrics
Takitaki and Tavai each bring over 80 games of NFL experience. Their track records show proven performance in recent cycles.
Sione Takitaki spent 2019-2023 with the Cleveland Browns (72 games). He played for the New England Patriots and Minnesota Vikings in the last two years. His 2025 season with the Vikings was limited: three games, three combined tackles, all on special teams. At 31, his defensive output has declined since 2023. The Texans still saw value in a closer look.
Jahlani Tavai played two years with the Detroit Lions and five with the Patriots. He saw rotational snaps in last season's Super Bowl. In 2025, he played 12 games (7 starts) with 42 combined tackles, four tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. These numbers are lower than his 2024 and 2025 seasons where he posted back-to-back 100-plus tackle years.
Both candidates offer the spark Houston needs in the linebacker room. The team lost veteran EJ Speed to a quad injury earlier this offseason. The LB3 role behind Azeez Al-Shaair and Henry To'oTo'o remains open.
Next Steps: Monitoring the Protocol
No signing is imminent. Both Takitaki and Tavai are names to track as the Texans continue training camp operations. The organization is running its standard optimization loop.
FAQ
Why did the Texans work out these two linebackers?
The team needs a replacement for injured linebacker Jake Hansen. Veteran EJ Speed is also out with a quad injury. The LB3 role is open.
What is the experience level of Takitaki and Tavai?
Both have over 80 NFL games played. Takitaki has 72 games with the Browns plus recent stints with the Patriots and Vikings. Tavai has 12 games last season with the Patriots and back-to-back 100-tackle seasons in 2024 and 2025.
Are signings expected soon?
No signing is imminent. The Texans are evaluating candidates on the open market.