Houston Texans linebacker E.J. Speed wasted no time in the preseason opener, turning his debut into a tone-setter for DeMeco Ryans’ defense. The former division rival signed a one-year, $5 million deal in April and backed it up immediately, earning a 92.0 PFF grade while impacting every level of the field.

Speed’s night popped on contact and in coverage. He delivered a heavy first-quarter hit, blew up a screen for a three-yard loss, and later deflected a pass—quick, decisive plays that changed momentum and series flow. The range and processing that fueled his 2024 breakout carried over, reinforcing why Houston pegged him as a low-risk, high-reward add.

Around him, the Texans’ linebackers look more well rounded than a year ago. Defensive captain Azeez Al-Shaair anchors the group, Christian Harris aims to stack a healthier season, and Henry To’oTo’o logged meaningful snaps with steady improvement. Depth pieces Jake Hansen and Jamal Hill add competition that should keep the room sharp as August unfolds.

Experience matters in the middle, and the former Indianapolis Colts linebacker brings it into his seventh NFL season. After a career year with the Colts—highlighted by 141 combined tackles, 13.5 stuffs (including seven tackles for loss) and an interception—he arrives as the team’s oldest linebacker, a presence that can raise the floor for younger teammates.

If this is the preseason baseline, the arrow is up. Speed’s range, recognition, and physicality give Houston options in pressure looks and sub-packages, and his opener pushes him closer to a full-time role. With play-time incentives in his contract and a clear path up the depth chart, he’s positioned to become a difference-maker for the Texans once the regular season kicks off.