Rackers Wins Texans Kicking Job

HOUSTON - HOUSTON - The Houston Texans released Kris Brown Friday, the only kicker in franchise history. Neil Rackers will kick for the Texans in 2010.

Brown is also the only player to participate in all 128 games in Texans history. He had his worst season as a pro last year, but in 2008, he had best year in the NFL.

The Texans brought in Rackers to compete for the job and the former All-Pro kicker with Arizona will kick for Houston.

In 10 years in the NFL, Rackers has made 205 of 262 career field goal attempts.

In 2005 with the Cardinals, Rackers set an NFL record for most field goals in a season with 42 and was named All-Pro.

"I can walk away with my head held high," Brown said in an interview with FOX 26 Sports. I handled, and Neil handled, everything as best we could. As I have said before this (competition) has made be a better player.

"I had a very good camp and I did everything that I could, but I knew the decision was out of my hands. That's life.

"I have a beautiful wife and three awesome children. I love them dearly and that's what it's all about.
"We'll be fine. A lot of people in this world have more dire situations than what I am going through."

Rackers was very gracious in reflecting on his relationship with Brown and what the Texans' decision means to him.

"I'm excited," Rackers said in an interview Friday with FOX 26 Sports. "I said all along I was excited to be with the Texans when I saw what they did in the second half of last year.

"It means a lot to me. Kris has been a great role model and did a great job in the community. I have to make Coach (Gary) Kubiak right in making the decision to go with me."

In leaving the Texans after nine years, Brown offered some parting thoughts to the thousands of Texans fans who have followed him.

"I appreciate what they have done for me," Brown said. "The fans have been fantastic.

"Houston will always hold a special place for Amy and I. Our kids were born here for crying out loud.
"I want to thank the fans for their support. It has been a great ride."

The Texans have also released cornerback Jacque Reeves,quarterack John David Booty, and runningbacks Chris Henry and Jeremiah Johnson.

The team also reached a contract agreement with free agent runningback Derrick Ward who worked out Friday for the Texans.

The Texans are expected to add Booty and Henry to the practice squad. Johnson could also be added to the practice squad as well.

Receiver Andre Davis, who has been hampered by an injury during training camp, is headed to injured reserve, which means he is done for the season.

The Texans had to reduce the roster from 75 players to 53 by Saturday afternoon at 3 p.m.

Also released Friday:

FB  Jack Corcoran
WR Bobby Williams
WR Derrick Townsel
TE  Derek Fine
OL  Adam Stenavich
OL  Steve Maneri
OL  Cole Pemberton
C    Brett Helms
C    Chris White
DL  Malcolm Sheppard
DL  Mitch Unrein
DL  DelJuan Robinson
LB  Will Patterson
LB  Isaiah Greenhouse
DB Mark Parson
DB Torri Williams