Sheldon Rankins loves the Houston Texans and thrives in DeMeco Ryans’ defense.
Why break up the good times over a couple of bucks on the open market?
According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the Texans and the defensive tackle have agreed to terms on a new two-year deal, with $12 million in guaranteed money. According to KPRC 2 Sports’ Aaron Wilson, the deal is expected to be over $6 million in annual salary through the 2027 season.
After leaving in 2024 to join the Cincinnati Bengals, Rankins returned to Houston on a one-year deal last fall. He ended up being one of the more complete defensive players for Houston, totaling 35 tackles, three sacks and a fumble recovery for a touchdown during the regular season. Rankins also had a scoop-and-score touchdown in the wild-card round victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Rankins won’t stop Houston from potentially targeting a long-term answer at defensive tackle in the draft, but it gives stability to the trenches for at least the short-term while returning another piece of the No. 1 defense from a season ago. After returning to his standout form as a run-stopping defensive tackle with upside in the pass rush, Houston is rewarding one of its more consistent playmakers in the Ryans’ era.
The signing of Rankins marks the second deal made by general manager Nick Caserio to retain a piece of the 12-win roster hours before the start of free agency’s legal tampering period. In the early hours, Houston and offensive lineman Ed Ingram agreed to terms on a three-year, $37.5 million deal, keeping him in Houston through 2028.
The Texans still plan to address the defensive tackle position and offensive line role when tampering period starts at 11 a.m.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans bring back standout DL Sheldon Rankins on new two-year deal
Reporting by Cole Thompson, Texans Wire / Texans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
