Texans Sign Former First-Round Safety Kareem Jackson Off of Waivers

The Houston Texans made safety Kareem Jackson a first-round pick in 2010. After being released by the Denver Broncos, he's back in H-Town for a playoff push.

Just days after allowing a record-breaking performance from Cleveland Browns receiver Amari Cooper, the Houston Texans called for reinforcements in the secondary.

In doing so, they claimed former Denver Broncos safety Kareem Jackson off of waivers.

Jackson was released on Christmas as a result of near-impossible playoff chances and the emergence of safety P.J. Locke.

Jake Roth-USA Today

The cut also comes after a string of unnecessary roughness incidents that landed him suspended—twice—and fined nearly $90,000. Jackson was suspended two games (cut down from four) due to a hit on Green Bay Packers tight end Luke Musgrave, then suspended for an additional four contests after an infraction against Minnesota Vikings quarterback Josh Dobbs.

Houston, desperate for help in the secondary, put in a claim before he could return to Denver’s practice squad.

The Texans made Jackson, an Alabama product, the 20th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Now 35 years old, Houston offers the defensive back who spent nine years with the Texans a chance to fight for a playoff berth.

Jackson was teammates with current Houston head coach DeMeco Ryans in 2010 and 2011. Now, he’ll help patrol the quarters-heavy defense Ryans has brought to H-Town.

The Texans will pay the remaining $279,444 of Jackson’s salary, per 9NEWS Sports.

Houston (8-7) will host the Tennessee Titans (5-10) in Week 17, followed by a potentially pivotal clash with the Indianapolis Colts (8-7) that could have ramifications for both the AFC South and AFC Wild Card standings.

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Per Mark Berman, Jackson was quick to revel in his return.

“I’m back,” Jackson said. “Can’t wait. I’m thrilled.”