Pro Bowl Pass Rusher Justin Houston Returns to Kansas City with the Dolphins

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09/01/2024 19h39

Veteran NFL player Justin Houston is set to make his return to Kansas City, where his career began, but this time as a member of the Miami Dolphins. The 34-year-old pass rusher signed with Miami ahead of Sunday's wild-card playoff game, as reported by NFL Media.

Houston spent the first eight seasons of his impressive NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs. Now, he will have an opportunity to showcase his skills on the familiar grounds of Arrowhead Stadium, albeit wearing different colors. The Dolphins will rely on Houston's expertise as they face the Chiefs in their quest for a playoff victory.

The timing of Houston's arrival is significant, as Miami's top edge rushers have been plagued by injuries. Both Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips are currently on injured reserve, while Andrew Van Ginkel and Cameron Goode are also nursing injuries. This opens the door for Houston to assume a prominent role immediately upon joining the team.

Despite his age, Houston has consistently performed at a high level throughout his career. The four-time Pro Bowler most recently played for the Carolina Panthers, appearing in seven games earlier this year. He contributed two tackles for loss and three quarterback hits before sustaining a hamstring injury that ultimately placed him on the injured reserve list. However, Houston's request for release was granted, allowing him the opportunity to explore other options.

A testament to his skill and longevity, Houston has played for an impressive number of teams in recent years. Miami will be his fifth different team in the past four seasons, displaying his versatility and adaptability as a player.

Houston's career statistics speak volumes about his impact on the field. He currently ranks just outside the top 25 in career sacks, with an impressive total of 112. Over the years, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks, tallying double-digit QB takedowns with the Indianapolis Colts. However, it was during his tenure with the Chiefs that Houston truly made a name for himself. During his time in Kansas City, he recorded a remarkable 78.5 sacks, 96 tackles for loss, and 118 quarterback hits from 2011-2018. Notably, Houston led the league in sacks in 2014, earning him the prestigious All-Pro recognition.

As Justin Houston returns to Kansas City, the Dolphins are hopeful that his presence will make a significant impact in their pursuit of a playoff victory. Fans and critics alike anticipate an exciting matchup as Houston showcases his skills against his former team, aiming to lead Miami to triumph in Sunday's wild-card game.

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