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Texans Promote Ameer Speed, Add Xavier Thomas in Pre-Chiefs Roster Shuffle

The timing reflects a push to maximize roles before a Week 14 visit to Kansas City with major playoff stakes.

Overview

  • The team confirmed Speed’s move to the 53-man roster and Thomas’s addition to the practice squad on Wednesday.
  • Speed played 18 special-teams snaps and made one tackle in his Texans debut against the Colts, per Pro Football Reference.
  • Houston also moved to involve edge rusher Solomon Byrd for depth behind Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson, and brought back offensive lineman Jaylon Thomas.
  • Secondary depth concerns were a driver for the changes, with only seven healthy defensive backs reported and Jaylen Reed injured.
  • ESPN’s model shows Houston’s playoff odds jumping to 76% with a win at Kansas City and falling to 37% with a loss, with the 6-6 Chiefs facing a swing from 56% to 14%.