Houston Texans claim former Broncos DB Kareem Jackson off waivers

The Houston Texans (8-7) have claimed veteran safety Kareem Jackson off waivers from the Denver Broncos (7-8).

The Broncos released Jackson, 35, on Christmas. Denver had until 4 p.m. ET to either add him to their 53-man roster or place him on waivers. Jackson had just returned to practice last Wednesday after serving a four-game suspension for repeated violations of unnecessary roughness rules this season.

Per Jeff Legwold of ESPN, Denver hoped to sign Jackson back to their practice squad if he cleared waivers Tuesday. That, of course, did not happen and Jackson will instead return to Houston, who selected him in the first-round of the 2010 NFL Draft out of Alabama. Jackson spent nine seasons with the Texans, suiting up in 132 games (124 starts). He joined the Broncos in 2019 where he had become a defensive captain. Across 14 seasons, he has tallied 952 tackles (736 solo), 110 passes defended, 22 interceptions and seven forced fumbles.

Kareem Jackson gets an opportunity to reset in Houston

“I’m thrilled to be back with the Texans,” Jackson told Aaron Wilson of KPRC-TV Tuesday. “It’s all coming full circle, having spent a lot of time in Houston. I’m really excited and happy for DeMeco and all the success he’s having. Being a part of that organization, seeing DeMeco getting the job and all his success, just being happy for him.

“They’ve got a bunch of young talent there. I want to come in, be a piece of the puzzle and help these guys win the next two games and get to the playoffs.”

In total, Jackson has missed six games this season due to suspension. He’s also been fined $89,670 and forfeited $838,889 in salary.

“I want to get the sour taste out of my mouth,” Jackson said. “The last few weeks have been rough on me. It’s been a rough season for me with everything that’s been going on. It’s been a rough season for me mentally. All about getting back to ball and being a piece of the puzzle. I’m excited to be with the Texans. I played with DeMeco for a few seasons, and I can’t wait to get started.”