Cornerback Charles James has signed a one-year contract with the Texans, the Houston Chronicle reported Monday.
James, 25, became a fan favorite when the Texans were featured on the popular Hard Knocks series last summer. He broke into the NFL with the Giants as an undrafted rookie by way of the practice squad in 2013, then signed with the Texans practice squad in 2014.
The Texans cut James at the end of the 2015 preseason. He signed with the Ravens practice squad, then was signed back to the Texans to address depth issues at cornerback. James played in nine games and made one start last season, recording seven tackles and a pass breakup.
Though he’s yet to return a punt or a kickoff in a game for the Texans, his return ability helps his chances to make the team and compete for playing time next season.