Former Patriots defensive back Myles Bryant is leaving to sign a free-agent deal with the Texans, a source confirmed to the Herald.

Related Articles

Patriots add Brazil as NFL Global Markets Program territory

Patriots have discussed contract extensions with Christian Barmore, Matt Judon

Patriots captain takes issue with NFL’s newest rule change

Jerod Mayo provides update on Patriots WR Kayshon Boutte after gambling arrest

Jerod Mayo believes Patriots still have options to fill needs after underwhelming free agency

Bryant, 26, is coming off a career year, when he posted 77 tackles, an interception, one sack, six pass deflections and two forced fumbles. He played 75% of the Patriots’ defensive snaps, bouncing between nickelback and safety drive to drive and play to play. He originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2020, when current Texans GM Nick Caserio spent his final year as an executive in New England.

Bryant’s role in the defense grew every season, rising from zero starts and roughly one-quarter of snaps play to starting nine games last season. He also returned punts. Bryant finishes his Patriots career with 17 starts in 55 regular-season appearances.

Bryant’s departure cuts into the Patriots’ secondary depth, though 2022 third-round pick Marcus Jones is a logical choice to replace him. Jones, like Bryant, is an undersized cornerback with experience at safety.

The Patriots’ remaining corners are Jones, Christian Gonzalez, Jonathan Jones, Alex Austin, Shaun Wade, Marco Wilson, Isaiah Bolden and Azizi Hearn. Their safety depth chart features Kyle Dugger (unsigned transition tag), Jabrill Peppers, Marte Mapu, Jaylin Hawkins, Joshuah Bledsoe and Brenden Schooler.