Texans Activate Denico Autry and Jaylen Reed from PUP List: What It Means for Houston’s Defense
In a move that could reshape the Houston Texans’ defensive lineup, the team has officially activated defensive end Denico Autry and cornerback Jaylen Reed from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. This decision comes at a critical juncture in the season, as the Texans look to bolster their roster ahead of key matchups. But what does this activation mean for the team’s performance, and why should fans—and fantasy football enthusiasts—pay attention?
Whether you’re a die-hard Texans supporter, a fantasy football manager, or simply a fan of NFL strategy, understanding the impact of these activations is essential. In this breakdown, we’ll explore who Autry and Reed are, why their return matters, how their roles could influence Houston’s defensive schemes, and what this means for the team’s playoff aspirations.
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Who Are Denico Autry and Jaylen Reed?
Denico Autry: The Veteran Pass-Rusher
Denico Autry isn’t just another defensive end—he’s a proven disruptor with a knack for getting to the quarterback. Now in his ninth NFL season, Autry has spent time with the Oakland Raiders, Indianapolis Colts, and Teessee Titans before joining the Texans in 2023. Known for his versatility, he can line up both on the edge and in the interior, making him a valuable asset in defensive coordinator Matt Burke’s hybrid schemes.
Injuries sidelined Autry during training camp, but his track record speaks for itself:
- 2022 Season (Titans): 8.5 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, and 16 quarterback hits.
- 2021 Season (Titans): 9 sacks and a career-high 15 quarterback hits.
- Career Total: 37.5 sacks, 52 tackles for loss, and 9 forced fumbles.
His ability to collapse pockets and generate pressure will be crucial for a Texans defense that ranked 20th in sacks (36) last season.
Jaylen Reed: The Rising Cornerback
While Autry brings experience, Jaylen Reed represents the future of Houston’s secondary. A 2023 undrafted free agent out of Michigan, Reed quickly turned heads during his rookie minicamp with his physicality, ball skills, and instincts. Though a preseason injury landed him on the PUP list, his activation signals the Texans’ confidence in his recovery and potential.
Reed’s college career highlights why he’s worth watching:
- 2022 Season (Michigan): 4 interceptions, 8 pass breakups, and All-Big Ten honors.
- NFL Combine Standout: Ran a 4.45s 40-yard dash and posted a 38.5-inch vertical jump.
- Versatility: Played both outside corner and in the slot, offering flexibility for defensive backs coach Danton Barto.
With the Texans’ secondary dealing with inconsistencies, Reed’s activation could provide a much-needed boost in coverage and turnover creation.
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Why These Activations Matter Now
The Texans’ Defensive Struggles in 2023
Last season, Houston’s defense was a tale of two halves. While the unit showed flashes of dominance—particularly in red-zone stops—it also struggled with:
- Pass rush inconsistency: Only Will Anderson Jr. (7 sacks) emerged as a reliable threat.
- Secondary vulnerabilities: Allowed the 6th-most passing yards (4,012) in the league.
- Injury woes: Lost key players like Jalen Pitre (safety) and Derek Stingley Jr. (cornerback) to missed games.
Autry and Reed’s return addresses two critical gaps: pass rush depth and cornerback competition.
Playoff Implications
With the Texans sitting at 2-1 (as of this writing) in a competitive AFC South, every defensive improvement counts. Here’s how Autry and Reed could swing the balance:
- Autry’s Impact:
- Takes pressure off Will Anderson Jr., preventing double teams.
- Provides a veteran presence for young edge rushers like Jonathan Greenard.
- Enhances the defensive line’s ability to stop the run (Texans allowed 4.3 yards per carry in 2023).
- Reed’s Impact:
- Adds depth behind starters Derek Stingley Jr. and Steveelson.
- Potential slot corner option, allowing Desmond King II to focus on blitz packages.
- Special teams contributor (Reed was a standout guer in college).
Fantasy Football Ramifications
For fantasy managers, Autry’s activation is the bigger storyline:
- IDP (Individual Defensive Player) Value: Autry is a high-floor DE2 with weekly sack upside. In leagues that reward tackles for loss, he’s a sneaky pickup.
- Texans D/ST Boost: Houston’s defense was a top-10 fantasy unit in 2023 (thanks to turnovers and sacks). Autry’s return could push them into elite D/ST1 territory.
- Reed’s Long-Term Appeal: While not an immediate fantasy asset, stash him in dynasty leagues—his athleticism and ball skills make him a future DB2.
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How Autry and Reed Fit Into the Texans’ Scheme
Denico Autry’s Role: The Swiss Army Knife
Defensive coordinator Matt Burke favors a multiple-front defense, blending 4-3 and 3-4 looks. Autry’s versatility makes him a perfect fit:
- Base Package (4-3): Lines up as a defensive tackle alongside Maliek Collins, creating interior pressure.
- Nickel Package (3-4): Shifts to defensive end, allowing Will Anderson Jr. to rush from a two-point stance.
- Blitz Schemes: Often used on stunts and twists to confuse offensive lines (a Burke specialty).
Film Study Insight: In Teessee, Autry frequently aligned as a “wide-9” end, using his speed to beat tackles around the edge. Expect Burke to deploy him similarly in obvious passing situations.
Jaylen Reed’s Role: The Slot or Outside Wildcard
Reed’s activation doesn’t guarantee immediate snaps, but his skill set offers options:
- Outside Corner: Competes with Eric Murray for reps opposite Stingley.
- Slot Corner: Challenges Desmond King II iickel packages, especially against speedy receivers.
- Special Teams: Likely to contribute on punt and kickoff coverage early on.
Coaching Perspective: Head coach DeMeco Ryans has praised Reed’s “footwork and competitiveness”, suggesting he’ll earn opportunities in sub-packages.
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Potential Challenges and Adjustments
Injury Risk and Workload Management
Both players are returning from injuries, so the Texans will likely ease them in:
- Autry: May see 20-30 snaps in his first game back, with a gradual increase.
- Reed: Could be limited to special teams initially, with defensive snaps earned in practice.
Key Stat: Players returning from PUP lists average 67% of their pre-injury snap count in their first game back (per Pro Football Focus).
Roster Domino Effects
Activating Autry and Reed requires corresponding moves:
- The Texans may waive or trade a defensive lineman (e.g., Thomas Booker) or cornerback (Ka’dar Hollman).
- Practice squad shuffling: Expect a flurry of transactions to maintain depth.
Opponent Adjustments
Opposing offenses will now have to account for:
- Autry’s interior rush: Guards will need help, potentially leaving edges vulnerable to Anderson.
- Reed’s athleticism: Quarterbacks may avoid throwing his way in man coverage.
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What’s Next for the Texans?
Short-Term Outlook (Weeks 4–8)
The Texans face a gauntlet of offenses, including the Bills, Falcons, and Steelers. Autry and Reed’s contributions will be tested early:
- Week 4 vs. Steelers: Autry’s ability to pressure Key Pickett could force turnovers.
- Week 6 vs. Falcons: Reed’s coverage skills may be needed against Drake London and Kyle Pitts.
Long-Term Playoff Push
If Houston wants to repeat as AFC South champions, their defense must improve in two areas:
- Third-Down Stops: Ranked 24th (42% conversion rate allowed) in 2023. Autry’s pass rush helps here.
- Takeaways: Only 19 turnovers last season (tied for 16th). Reed’s ball-hawking could change that.
Contract Implications
Autry is on a one-year, $3.5 million deal. A strong second half could earn him a multi-year extension or a lucrative 2025 free-agent contract. Reed, meanwhile, is on a rookie minimum deal—his performance will dictate his 2025 role.
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How Fans Can Follow the Impact
Key Stats to Watch
Track these metrics to gauge Autry and Reed’s influence:
- Autry:
- Pressure rate (aim for 10%+).
- Run-stop win rate (elite is 30%+).
- Reed:
- Snap count percentage (rising above 20% is a good sign).
- Targeted rate in coverage (lower is better).
Where to Watch
Catch the Texans’ upcoming games on:
- CBS (AFC road games).
- Fox (NFC matchups).
- NFL+ (out-of-market streams).
- ESPN/Prime Video (Thursday/Monday Night Football).
Fantasy Football Moves
If you’re in a fantasy league:
- Add Autry in IDP leagues (owned in ~40% of ESPN leagues).
- Monitor Reed in dynasty formats—he’s a post-hype sleeper.
- Stream the Texans D/ST in plus matchups (e.g., vs. Jaguars, Panthers).
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Expert Takes and Predictions
Analyst Opinions
Here’s what the experts are saying:
- PFF: “Autry’s return gives the Texans a top-12 defensive line when healthy.”
- ESPN’s Matt Bowen: “Reed has the traits to be a starting NFL corner by 2025.”
- The Athletic’s Aaron Reiss: “This is the most complete Texans defense since the Watt era.”
Bold Predictions
Here’s what could unfold:
- Autry finishes with 7+ sacks in 12 games.
- Reed records 1+ interception in his first 100 snaps.
- The Texans’ defense ranks top-10 in sacks and takeaways post-activation.
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Conclusion: A Defensive Renaissance in Houston?
The activation of Denico Autry and Jaylen Reed isn’t just a roster move—it’s a statement of intent from the Texans. Autry brings the veteran leadership and pass-rush prowess this defense desperately needs, while Reed offers youthful energy and upside in the secondary. Together, they could transform Houston’s defense from a middle-of-the-pack unit into a playoff-caliber force.
For fans, this is a reason to tune in. For fantasy managers, it’s a chance to gain an edge. And for the Texans? It’s an opportunity to prove that their 2023 playoff run was no fluke.
The questioow isn’t if these activations will make a difference—it’s how soon we’ll see the impact. Buckle up, football fans. The Texans’ defense just got a lot more interesting.
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