HOUSTON – Texans veteran cornerback Ronald Darby plans to retire and has told the team of his intentions, per a league source.
The Texans, once informed of his plan to step away from football, have now officially placed Darby on the reserve-retired list.
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“Totally unexpected,” a source said.
Darby was signed to a one-year, $2.5 million contract this offseason.
The Texans are well-stocked at corner with the presence of All-Pro selection Derek Stingley Jr., as well as returning starter Kamari Lassiter and drafted versatile USC corner Jaylin Smith in the third round. The Texans are pleased with Smith’s early development and envision a solid role for him.
Darby, 31, is a former Buffalo Bills second-round draft pick from Florida State.
He has also played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, Denver Broncos, Baltimore Ravens, and, last season, with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Darby played in 13 games last season and had 46 tackles, three for losses and nine pass deflections.
Darby started 107 of 118 career games and has recorded eight career interceptions with his last two interceptions in 2019 with the Eagles.
Darby has recorded 447 career tackles, 12 for losses, one forced fumble and 37 passes defensed.
He played 72 percent of the defensive snaps last season for Jacksonville,
He allowed 42 receptions on 61 targets for a career-high 68.9 completion percentage for 567 yards and four touchdowns for a career-high 120.0 passer rating against him.
Aaron Wilson is a Texans and NFL reporter for KPRC 2 and click2houston.com
