D.J. Swearinger Released by Texans: Latest Details, Comments and Reaction

The Houston Texans released strong safety D.J. Swearinger on Monday, per Fox 26's Mark Berman.

The Texans later confirmed the release.

Swearinger also took to Instagram and thanked the Texans organization for having him:

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported in late April that Swearinger was on the trade block. Just 23 years old, the hard-hitting Swearinger ought to generate a lot more interest now that he's been cut free.

James Starks of click2houston.com reported on the potential reason for Swearinger getting cut:

Rather than sacrificing an asset Texans general manager Rick Smith might have desired, other teams who want to add Swearinger can now get him without giving anything up—depending on where they are on the waiver wire, of course.

Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reported that the Buccaneers have discussed the possibility of adding Swearinger but are 50-50 on the decision.

Swearinger was a second-round pick in 2013 and had 73 tackles, two interceptions and three forced fumbles last season. Bleacher Report Draft Analyst Ian Wharton noted that Swearinger has the tools to be a star in the NFL but hasn't really realized his potential to date:

Newly acquired former New York Giants safety Stevie Brown is bound to compete with Eddie Pleasant for the starting job now that Swearinger is out of Houston.

Brown had eight interceptions in 2012 but tore his left ACL and missed all of the next year. Although he played in all 16 games for the Giants during the 2014 campaign, he wasn't as effective and will have to prove he's fully fit to make an impact.

Superstar defensive end J.J. Watt can make up for any sort of shortcomings the Texans might have on defense.

However, Smith and Co. drafted cornerback Kevin Johnson and linebacker Benardrick McKinney, retained Kareem Jackson, extended Whitney Mercilus and added the likes of safety Rahim Moore and nose tackle Vince Wilfork in free agency.

That side of the ball seems rather sound despite Swearinger's abrupt exit and previously prominent role.