Texans Release OL Senio Kelemete In Cash-Saving Move

The Houston Texans have released veteran offensive lineman Senio Kelemete, saving themselves about $1.5 million in cap space ahead of free agency, as noted by Ian Rapoport of NFL Media.

Kelemete displayed plenty of versatility during his three seasons with the Texans, but he never really lived up to expectations of being a staunch protector of quarterback Deshaun Watson.

These are tough times for the Texans, who have been engulfed in rumors that Watson wants out. They finished this past season a miserable 4-12 and fired former coach/general manager Bill O'Brien after four games.

They have also parted ways with standout defensive lineman J.J. Watt.

Kelemete, 30, appeared in 14 games in 2020, one year after suffering a season-ending injury. Overall, he has started just six times in the past two seasons since arriving from the New Orleans Saints in 2018.

His career began with the Arizona Cardinals, and he became the first offensive lineman in NFL history to make a reception in his debut. He caught a deflected pass from Brian Hoyer that went for 10 yards.

The franchise is also cutting linebacker Peter Kalambayi, creating another $1 million or so in cap space.