James Houston's right ankle injury severely affected his sophomore season after a promising rookie year where he recorded eight sacks. His prolonged absence due to the injury led to his release in 2024 and he currently remains unsigned as a free agent.

James Houston has been claimed by the Cleveland Browns after spending his first three seasons with the Detroit Lions. At 26, he has exhibited significant potential, particularly during his rookie year in 2022 when he recorded eight sacks and a forced fumble in just seven games. However, he has struggled to secure a consistent role since then, contributing only eight tackles and one sack in eight games this season. The Browns are hopeful that with the right development and opportunities, Houston can become a key impact player for their defense. His ability to reach the quarterback when healthy makes him a promising addition as Cleveland aims to enhance its competitiveness.

James Houston has been released by the Lions after failing to replicate his impressive rookie performance, where he recorded eight sacks in just seven games. This season, he struggled with only one sack in eight games, following a broken leg that limited him to two games last year. Coach Dan Campbell indicated that it was time for Houston to have a fresh start, as the team had given him several opportunities without success. The Lions have faced significant injury challenges among their edge rushers this season.

James Houston has been released by the Lions after failing to match his rookie season's production. He recorded eight sacks in seven games during his debut year but struggled this season, managing only one sack in eight games after returning from a broken leg that limited him to two games last year. Coach Dan Campbell indicated that a fresh start was necessary for Houston, especially as the team has been dealing with injuries to multiple edge rushers.

James Houston burst onto the scene with a strong start in 2022, recording eight sacks in just seven games as a rookie. However, his performance declined over the following seasons, and he struggled to find his footing, particularly after an ankle injury sidelined him for most of 2023. Despite stepping into a larger role following Aidan Hutchinson's injury, Houston could not assert himself among the team's edge rushers. With the addition of Za'Darius Smith and the emergence of other players, the Lions decided to part ways with him after 17 games, during which he recorded nine sacks and 21 total tackles. Coach Dan Campbell expressed that it just didn’t work out for Houston in Detroit, wishing him the best in finding a fresh start.