Free-agent defensive tackle Vince Wilfork has planted his flag in Houston. The former Patriot announced Monday on Twitter his intent to sign with the Texans.
Thank you everyone for everything your support has been tremendous pic.twitter.com/Kej0MsI6yB
— Vince Wilfork (@wilfork75) March 16, 2015MORE: Team-by-team free agency signings, departures
Wilfork's deal with Houston is for two years, according to NFL.com. The amount was initially undisclosed.
Based on a tweet sent moments after Wilfork's reported signing, we presume J.J. Watt is happy to share the defensive line with such a proven tackle.
haha
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) March 16, 2015The 33-year-old is familiar with the Texans coaching staff and will fill a glaring need on the defensive line. The 6-2, 325-pounder knows coach Bill O'Brien, who was with the Patriots from 2007-11. Former New England teammate Mike Vrabel is now the Texans' linebackers coach, and current Houston defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel was on the staff that selected Wilfork as New England's first-round pick in 2004.
Wilfork, who was released earlier this month, recorded 47 tackles and one interception for the Patriots last season. He won two Super Bowls and four AFC titles in 11 seasons with New England. Patriots coach Bill Belichick said in a statement Monday that Wilfork "is the best defensive linemen I ever coached."