With the 2025 NFL offseason in full swing, sights leave the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl win in the past and turn toward the NFL Scouting Combine next week.
Currently, the rumor mill is swirling around potential moves that could alter the 2025 season via free agency. But while some free agents are known, others still remain on their current roster and soon could hit the market.
The Houston Texans could make several cuts to potentially save money entering free agency. Tight end Dalton Schultz, offensive tackle Tytus Howard and offensive lineman Shaq Mason have all been rumored to be on the chopping block, but nothing is set in stone entering next week’s combine.
NFL.com’s Matt Okada listed several roster-cut candidates from both the NFC and AFC. For the Texans, only defensive lineman Denico Autry appeared as the top candidate set to leave ahead of the legal tampering period on March 10.
“Denico Autry has had a consistent, 10-plus-year career across multiple teams, but it might be winding to a close after a middling age-34 season in Houston,” Odka wrote. “Autry started just two of 10 games played, logged just three sacks and six QB hits (both his fewest since 2016) and carries a $10.3 million cap hit heading into 2025. Houston only saves $5.8 million by cutting him pre-June 1, so Autry would be better designated as a post-June 1 cut ($8.8 million in cap savings). The veteran will likely be released either way.”
Autry’s uninspiring first season in Houston came with several faults. He was suspended for the first six games after violating the NFL’s policy against performance-enhancing substances during training camp. Once he returned, there was never a set role for him between defensive tackle and defensive end.
Then again, DeMeco Ryans raved of Autry’s leadership for a younger defensive line room and his position flexibility. General manager Nick Caserio also called him a “junkyard dog” who provided the type of mentality needed to win,
Houston should cut several players, but Autry feels like a later designation if anything. Moving him down the pecking order while several other offensive players move up seems more sustainable entering next month’s new calendar season.
The Texans currently have less than $5 million in salary to work with entering free agency.