Houston Texans' Desmond King Elevated to 53-Man Roster vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

After returning to the Houston Texans, nickel cornerback Desmond King has been elevated from the practice squad ahead of their Week 13 match against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

HOUSTON — The Houston Texans announced that the team has elevated nickel corner Desmond King from their practice squad roster Saturday afternoon. King's addition to the Texans' 53-man roster comes after he signed with the team as a free agent Monday afternoon. 

King was the Texans' most surprising release during the NFL cutdown day in August. He signed to join the Pittsburgh Steelers following his release from the Texans. But after three games, King's time with the Steelers ended quickly.

King became the second player to reunite with the Texans following their initial release. Defensive lineman Khalil Davis was the first.

"With Desmond, we just wanted to add another veteran guy for our secondary," coach DeMeco Ryans said. "Desmond with his flexibility – he’s made nickel before played safety and corner. Just adding a guy with that flexibility and experience is good for us right now."

Texans cornerback Desmond King II reacts during the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium / Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

After joining the team in 2021, King became one of the Texans' most reliable defensive backs. His best season came in 2021 when injuries forced King to play as an outside corner. He finished his first season in Houston with a career-best 93 tackles, six pass deflections, and three interceptions. 

King believes his reunion with the Texans is a "fresh start" after his abrupt departure. Everyone in the Texans' locker room welcomed King back. But none more so than his childhood friend, Tavierre Thomas.

"Just having him back is a blessing," Thomas said. "That is my brother, and anytime I can play with my brother, I am happy.”

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