Texans To Release DE Mario Addison

The Houston Texans signed veteran defensive lineman Sheldon Rankins Wednesday afternoon. But the acquisition of Rankins could come at the expense of Mario Addison.

According to KPRC, the Texans could release Addison after a one-year stint. Addison joined the Texans as a free agent in March 2022 after he signed a two-year deal worth $7.7 million.

The reason for Addison's release is due to salary-cap purposes. But at 35 years old, Addison's best days are clearly behind him amid his twilight years. The release of Addison would save Houston a little over $2.3 million, per Over The Cap.

He appeared in 12 games for the Texans and recorded 15 tackles, a pair of quarterback hits and 1.0 sack. When compared to his play as a member of the Buffalo Bills, Addison's on-field production had declined from the previous year.

Addison finished the 2021 campaign with 29 tackles, seven quarterback hits and 7.0 sacks. His best tenure came during the eight years he played with the Carolina Panthers, where Addison recorded 55.0 of his 68 career sacks. 

Rankins is the second defensive lineman Houston has added since the start of free agency. The Texans signed veteran defensive tackle Hassan Ridgeway Monday morning.