Houston signed veteran safety Jalen Mills to deepen the Texans’ secondary as safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson recovers from a knee injury. Mills, 31, spent last season with the Jets after a standout run with Philadelphia that included a Super Bowl title in 2018. In nine NFL campaigns across the Eagles, Patriots and Jets, Mills has 450 tackles, 59 passes defended and eight interceptions in 115 games (91 starts). The move comes as Gardner-Johnson avoids a potential setback and as Jimmie Ward faces legal trouble that could trigger a suspension. The Texans’ secondary suddenly looks more seasoned with Mills aboard.

Gardner-Johnson’s ACL tests reportedly came back clean and he could be back as early as Week 1, a positive signal DeMeco Ryans shared after a preseason loss to Minnesota. Ward’s release violation arrest deepens the Texans’ need for veteran depth. Mills’ acquisition signals Houston’s urgency to stabilize the back end while its young players develop, giving fantasy managers a clearer read on who might step up in the defensive backfield in the early games.

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.

Jalen Mills signs with the Houston Texans, injecting veteran depth into a safety room short on bodies. Mills, 31, started eight games for the Jets in 2024 and produced six pass deflections, an interception, and a forced fumble. He joins a Texans defense known for DeMeco Ryans’ scheme and immediately gives depth behind C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Jimmie Ward, and rookie Jaylen Reed, all sidelined by injuries. Mills’ versatility—transitioning from corner to safety—fits Ryans’ multiple-look approach, and his familiarity with Saleh-era defenses adds immediate value as the Texans navigate a busy early slate.

Mills also carries a notable pedigree, including a Super Bowl-winning run with Philadelphia in 2017. A DeSoto native, he brings leadership and a playoff-tested mindset to a roster still sorting through contingency plans at safety. The Rosenhaus-anchored signing underscores the Texans’ willingness to add proven depth as injuries mount, and Mills’ addition could position him for a steady role if injuries linger throughout the season.

Aaron Rodgers has shown signs of resurgence in recent weeks, leading the New York Jets to a 32-25 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. At 41, Rodgers completed 62% of his passes for 628 yards and four touchdowns in his last two games, raising questions about his longevity in the league.

Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich noted that Rodgers' health is improving, allowing him to showcase his skills once again. The Jets face decisions regarding Rodgers' future, including contract implications and team direction.

Davante Adams showcased his talent with a remarkable performance, catching nine passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns, all in the second half, leading the New York Jets to a 32-25 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Aaron Rodgers also had a standout game, throwing for 289 yards and three touchdowns, helping the Jets break a four-game losing streak. The duo of Adams and Rodgers connected for their 81st touchdown together, solidifying their place in NFL history.

Jacksonville's Mac Jones had a strong outing with 294 yards and two touchdowns, but two interceptions proved costly. The game featured fast starts from both teams, with rookie Brian Thomas Jr. breaking franchise records for the Jaguars.