2024 NFL free agency: Texans bring back KR Steven Sims

With the top players off the market, teams are filling out their rosters with veterans on short-term deals.

Rather than continue to bring in outside free agents, the Houston Texans brought back one of their own. Houston re-sign wide receiver and return specialist Steven Sims Jr., according to KPRC’s 2 Aaron Wilson. 

Source: #Texans re-signing wide receiver-kick returner Steven Sims Jr. Travis graduate returned punt 67 yards for touchdown in playoff loss to #Ravens @KPRC2 https://t.co/UO0odvizVg

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 20, 2024

The soon-to-be 27-year-old played four games in Houston this past season. He returned a punt 67 yards for a touchdown in the Texans’ AFC divisional-round loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Sims had three catches for 25 receiving yards, four punt returns for 49 yards and three kickoff returns for 71 yards. 

Sims spent most of the season on the Texans’ practice squad. Before joining Houston, he played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Washington Commanders for two seasons apiece. In his career, Sims caught 78 passes for 704 yards and five touchdowns.

Sims, born in Texas, attended Travis High School in Pecan Grove, an hour west of Houston. The Texans led the NFL in kickoff return touchdowns in 2023. Sims led the league in kickoff return attempts in his rookie season with Washington in 2019.

The Texans brought back most of its special teams contributors. Special teams coordinator Frank Ross deploys one of the league’s best units. Sims’ contract details are unknown at the time.