The Houston Texans made a significant move on Tuesday, by claiming safety Kareem Jackson off waivers just a day after his release by the Denver Broncos. The team announced this acquisition, revealing a corresponding move of placing safety Jimmie Ward who is on injured reserve due to a quad injury sustained during Sunday’s loss to the Cleveland Browns.
Kareem Jackson’s Turbulent Season
The 35-year-old Jackson has faced a turbulent season marked by two suspensions, the most recent being a four-game suspension. His ejections from two games resulted from repeated violations of unnecessary roughness rules.
Suspension Incidents
The first ejection occurred in Week 2 against the Washington Commanders when Jackson made an illegal hit on tight end Logan Thomas. His first suspension followed his ejection in the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers in Week 7 for a sideline hit on Packers tight end Luke Musgrave.
In Week 11, Jackson faced another incident when he delivered a hard hit on Minnesota Vikings quarterback Joshua Dobbs. Subsequently, the league imposed a four-game suspension for his repeated violations of player safety rules.
Jackson’s Enthusiasm for Texans Return
Jackson, drafted by the Texans in 2010, reunites with Texans coach DeMeco Ryans, with whom he played his first two seasons in Houston. He expressed his enthusiasm about returning to the Texans and aimed to contribute to the team’s success.
“I’m thrilled to be back with the Texans,” Jackson told KPRC-TV on Tuesday. “It’s all coming full circle, having spent a lot of time in Houston. I’m really excited and happy for DeMeco and all the success he’s having.”
“They’ve got a bunch of young talent there. I want to come in, be a piece of the puzzle and help these guys win the next two games and get to the playoffs.”
Veteran Safety’s Broncos Stint
The veteran safety had started 69 games for the Broncos over the past five seasons, including eight this year. He returned to practice last Wednesday after serving his four-game suspension. But he was not activated for Sunday night’s game against the New England Patriots.
Texans’ Suspended Players Trio
With the addition of Jackson, the Texans now have two of the three players suspended this season for illegal hits, joining veteran linebacker Denzel Perryman. Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Damontae Kazee is the other player in this category.