Jalen Pitre might have missed the final month of the regular season, but the third-year defensive back won’t be missing much of the Houston Texans’ offseason workouts.
Pitre spoke to the media for the first time since undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery in December. The Walter Payton Man of the Year recipient said his recovery was going well as he continues to be challenged by Houston’s training staff.
“I’m in a good mental space,” Pitre said. “They’re doing a good job of keeping me there, for sure.”
One of the more impactful players for DeMeco Ryans’ secondary, Pitre’s breakout season in the nickel came to an end in the second quarter of Week 12’s loss against the Tennessee Titans. Initially, Pitre wanted to play through the injury, but a second opinion from doctors nixed the plan and led to a shortened season.
#Texans nickel Jalen Pitre @JalenPitre1 says recovery from torn pectoral is going great and he’s looking forward to next season after success at new-old position this year @KPRC2 pic.twitter.com/8Vf4t6BfWb
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) January 20, 2025
The nickel position for Houston took a hit three weeks later as veteran Jimmie Ward suffered a season-ending foot injury against the Kansas City Chiefs. Myles Bryant held his own over the final four games, but the Texans’ quest to a Super Bowl was cut short in the divisional round against the Chiefs Saturday afternoon.
“We let a couple plays slip, which ultimately kinda showed at the end,” Pitre said. “For the most part, there was good energy out there, good competition, I thought they did a pretty good job.”
Pitre, who finished with 65, six tackles for loss and eight pass breakups, improved drastically after moving from safety into the nickel position. He plans on building off a successful yet shortened season as Houston continues its quest to get over the pillar of divisional round woes.
#Texans DB Jalen Pitre provides an update on his rehabilitation following surgery. pic.twitter.com/BGdKGTlrHA
— Cole Thompson (@MrColeThompson) January 20, 2025
“I’m bery thankful I play for the Houston Texans and I play with so many great players… I’m so thankful to be here,” Pitre said. “I’m looking forward to the future.”
The Texans (11-8) own the 25th overall pick in April’s draft.
