The New England Patriots kick off their preseason on Friday in Foxboro against the Washington Commanders. Head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed Wednesday that healthy starters are expected to play. Though most fans are excited to see all the new additions on offense, fans should also pay attention to this Vrabel defense, even if it will be vanilla coverages.
That said, one former Patriots defensive back recently tried out for an AFC playoff contender. According to Around the NFL, former Patriots defensive back Jalen Mills had a tryout with the Houston Texans. While his chances of making the Texans are slim, the fact that he received a tryout is notable.
Texans host veteran DB Jalen Mills for tryout https://t.co/RKZd2dOY5Z pic.twitter.com/gMJXrZPDXb
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) August 5, 2025
Former Patriots DB Jalen Mills Tries Out for the Texans
Patriots fans aren't the biggest fans of Mills after his rocky stint with the team. The 31-year-old played in New England from 2021 to 2023. During those three seasons, Mills recorded 123 tackles, 13 passes defensed, two interceptions, and one forced fumble.
Furthermore, he only had one season with a 60.0 or higher grade in pass coverage, according to PFF. Although Mills was on a worse defense the next two seasons, he was meant to be a stabilizing force, which he wasn't.
The 31-year-old spent last season with the New York Jets. In 2024, Mills played nine games as a safety for the Jets. In those nine games, he tallied 44 tackles and six passes defensed. However, he still struggled in coverage, recording just a 52.2 pass coverage grade.
If Mills signs with the Texans, he has a low chance of making their initial 53-man roster. Houston safeties currently are Jalen Pitre, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Calen Bullock, Jimmie Ward (pending suspension and Jaylen Reed.
If Ward does get suspended, then Mills would be a good veteran backup replacement for him. Mills' experience in multiple defensive systems and playoff pedigree from his time with the Philadelphia Eagles could give him an edge.
Even though this Mills development is interesting, Patriots fans are more focused on seeing their team look much-improved under Vrabel in 2025.