5 Houston Texans Players Who Definitely Won’t Be Back in 2026 — And Three of Them Say the Franchise Will Regret It

Houston, Texas – January 2026

The Houston Texans have officially crossed the thin line between rebuilding patiently and demanding immediate results. As expectations replace optimism, the franchise has entered a phase where tough, unemotional decisions are no longer optional — they are required. And the road to the 2026 season begins with a clear message: No name is too big to be moved on from.

Five players are now widely expected to be gone before next season. Not because they failed — but because Houston has chosen a different direction.

For Stefon Diggs, the issue was never talent. The Texans acquired exactly the star they wanted, only to realize that their offensive identity could not revolve around a personality that demands constant gravity. As Houston transitions toward a balanced system built on shared responsibility and young playmakers, Diggs’ contract and role became misaligned with the vision. By 2026, his cap hit outweighs his schematic value.

Diggs understands that. But he also understands something else: his story isn’t finished.

“I truly loved this team. I loved the fans here. But when the vision no longer moves in the same direction, I have to find another place to finish my football dream.”

It wasn’t bitterness. It was resolve.

With Laremy Tunsil, the decision is far more mathematical. Houston must preserve flexibility to extend its young core, build around C.J. Stroud, and maintain depth across the roster. Tunsil remains elite, but his contract has become restrictive. In the NFL, even Pro Bowl left tackles become expendable when cost outweighs sustainability.

Tunsil didn’t protest. He adjusted.

“I protected this jersey with everything I had. But now I need to be somewhere that believes in winning with me.”

If he continues to play at an elite level elsewhere, Houston will be the organization forced to look back.

Robert Woods’ exit carries a different tone. He wasn’t removed for mistakes — he was overtaken by time. Woods was a locker-room leader, a professional presence, and a stabilizing force. But the NFL doesn’t pay for nostalgia. As younger, faster, cheaper receivers demand expanded roles, Woods became the sacrifice.

His departure is quiet, but heavy.

“I’m proud to have worn a Texans jersey. I love my teammates and the fans. Now it’s time for me to keep playing somewhere else — not because I turned away, but because the passion is still there.”

It’s the kind of farewell teams only appreciate after it’s gone.

For Sheldon Rankins, the reasoning is simpler and more ruthless. Houston’s defense is trending toward speed, versatility, and constant pressure. Rankins is reliable — but no longer essential. He wasn’t rejected. He simply became a non-priority.

Then there’s Ka’imi Fairbairn. Kickers exist on borrowed time. Fairbairn provided stability, but a handful of missed moments in critical situations is enough for front offices to seek younger, cheaper alternatives. This isn’t an indictment — it’s the reality of the position.

What makes this situation resonate isn’t the number of departures.

It’s that three of these players are leaving believing they still have something to prove.

The Texans may be right to choose the future over familiarity. But if Diggs, Tunsil, or Woods thrive elsewhere, Houston will face the most uncomfortable question any ambitious franchise must confront:

Did they move on from the right players — or simply move on too soon?