With the Texans hard up for pass catchers, Smith was active for only the seventh time all year. He had another catch called back by holding. His grab that did count was his first of the entire season. Going on 27, 2019 second-rounder Smith has just about faded out of the league.

Smith is a four-year veteran who has struggled with injuries throughout his career, notably a torn meniscus that kept him out for the full 2021 season. Initially drafted by the Vikings, Smith spent last season with the Bengals and slashed 18/115/1 in 12 games. He will now try to latch on with the Texans, joining their practice squad. The Texans also added Scott Quessenberry to the practice squad with center Juice Scruggs banged up.

The Browns also hosted free agent tight ends Tommy Sweeney and Geoff Swaim for visits. David Njoku suffered an ankle injury in Week 1 and the visits suggest Cleveland expects him to miss some time. He is currently considered week-to-week. Smith was most recently cut by the Chiefs. Despite his second-round pedigree, Smith has failed to make much of an impact in the NFL. He would not be a fantasy option if he signs with Cleveland.

Smith Jr. was released by the Chiefs before the start of the season. The 26-year-old has dealt with injuries and hasn’t been particularly effective even when on the field, and he’d be nothing more than organizational depth for whatever team signs him.