The Texans are reportedly bringing in a familiar face to add depth in the tight end room. 

Per KPRC 2 Houston's Aaron Wilson, the Texans have reached a deal with TE Eric Tomlinson. Tomlinson spent his rookie season on the Texans' practice squad in 2015 before being released in 2016. Tomlinson attended Klein High School, which is roughly 20 minutes from downtown Houston. 

Texans general manager Nick Caserio is also familiar with Tomlinson, having both been with the Patriots' organization in 2019. 

Earlier this week, I raised the possibility of the Texans adding a veteran TE to the roster during my way-too-early 53-man roster projection. Tomlinson fits the bill as he is likely the best blocking tight end on the roster currently. 

The former UTEP Miner has never been much of a receiving threat in the NFL, but he helps out tremendously as a blocker. In 2022 for the Denver Broncos, Tomlinson started in 12 games and collected 9 catches for 79 yards and 2 touchdowns. 

The most productive stretch of Tomlinson's career thus far has been from 2016-2018 with the New York Jets. During this time, the tight end caught 16 balls for 193 yards and 1 TD. Since this time, Tomlinson has bounced around, suiting up for the Patriots, Giants, Raiders, Giants again, Ravens, and Broncos. 

Tomlinson figures to compete for a spot behind Dalton Schultz. Currently, Teagan Quitoriano, Brevin Jordan, and Mason Schreck represent other options at the position. Due to Tomlinson's skills as a blocker, he could be in line for a roster spot. Andrew Beck, also a Bronco in 2022, is on the roster as well as a FB/TE hybrid. 

If Tomlinson and Beck make the roster, Quitoriano, Jordan, and Schreck could all be competing for one spot.