The Houston Texans are locking up one of their key 2025 free-agency additions.
On Saturday morning, the Texans agreed to a two-year, $13 million deal with $7.5 million guaranteed with linebacker E. J. Speed, keeping him in Houston through the 2027 season.
The extension comes just a year after Speed signed a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Texans. The sizable pay bump after a single season reflects the team’s clear desire to keep the veteran linebacker in Houston.
Houston has been active early
in free agency, using cap space created by restructuring several existing contracts to retain proven veterans and maintain continuity on the roster.
The new deal elevates E. J. Speed into the top 25 highest-paid linebackers in the NFL… a notable jump for a player who was initially expected to serve as a depth option in 2026.
Speed logged 62 tackles and three tackles for loss while operating as Houston’s third linebacker alongside Henry To’oTo’o and Azeez Al-Shaair on the Houston Texans defense. In a scheme that typically featured only two starting linebackers, Speed carved out a clear role as a physical run defender and tone-setting hitter, eventually earning a few starts late in the season. He also dominated on special teams where he played 50% of all snaps.
Speed returning to Houston is also a clear indicator that former 2022 third round pick Christian Harris will pursue other avenues via free agency. Speed took over Harris’ role immediately upon his arrival and set a course for the once heralded linebacker to become an afterthought on defense.
Houston still needs a fourth linebacker to round out this group. Expect Houston to add another player in free agency or the draft.
