Texans cut ties with Carter, Thomas from IR, freeing healthy CB
Houston waives two defensive pieces from injured reserve, with Carter now a fully recovered free agent and Thomas out of options.
The Houston Texans have waived cornerback Ajani Carter and linebacker Xavier Thomas from injured reserve, clearing roster space and freeing Carter to pursue opportunities elsewhere. Houston designated Carter and Thomas for waivers after Carter completed recovery from arthroscopic knee surgery earlier in the year. Carter’s IR stint effectively ended his 2026 season with the Texans, but his full health now makes him an unrestricted free agent available to any team.
