NFL free agency has begun, and we’re keeping track of every major signing, trade and release of the 2026 offseason, with analysis from our NFL Nation reporters and grades from our experts. Teams can now negotiate with free agents, and signings can become official with the start of the new league year Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET. The first round of the 2026 NFL draft begins April 23 on ESPN. Ahead of the negotiating period, the Houston Texans re-signed offensive lineman Ed Ingram and defensive lineman Sheldon Rankins, and on Tuesday, they made kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn the highest-paid kicker in NFL history. Here’s a breakdown of every 2026 NFL free agent signing by the Texans and how each will impact the upcoming season: The former Eagle will sign a three-year, $24.75 million deal with the Texans. What it means: Blankenship has proven to be an effective tackler as he has 308 in his four-year career. He can also take the ball away having four interceptions in 2024, even though last season he posted just one. He joins a secondary group of safety Calen Bullock, nickel Jalen Pitre, cornerback Derek Stingley Jr and cornerback Kamari Lassiter. The Texans agreed to a two-year, $25 million contract that includes $13.5 million fully guaranteed, with the offensive tackle. What it means: Smith was a starter for eight seasons with the Colts and played in 107 games, starting 105 of them. Smith ranked 21st in highest pressure rate allowed among tackles with at least 300 pass block snaps, according to NFL Next Gen Stats (7.8%). He’ll have an opportunity to compete for the starting right tackle role with the Texans continuing to revamp their offensive line after trading away tackle and guard Tytus Howard to Cleveland. The defensive end is headed to Houston on a one-year deal worth up to $4 million, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. What it means: Robinson, who was a depth piece for the Bears throughout his four-year tenure, comes in on a one-year deal. You can expect him to fill the same role with the Texans.
