Houston signed veteran defensive back Jalen Mills to a one-year deal, aiming to stabilize a secondary that’s juggling youth and injury concerns. Mills competes for first-team reps with rookie Jaylen Reed, while Jalen Pitre and Jaylin Smith rotate through nickel/slot duties. The move comes as CJ Gardner-Johnson recovers from a leg injury and serves as a clear signal of Texans’ intent to shore up playmaking in the back end.

Gardner-Johnson’s potential early return remains a question mark for Week 1 against the Rams, making Mills’ addition even more timely. With safety Jimmie Ward facing legal issues, Mills could be active sooner than expected. Houston’s practice plans feature Panthers joint sessions, culminating in a showdown with the Rams that will test Mills, Reed, and the rest of the revamped secondary in real-game mimicry.