The Houston Texans are making a move to bolster their defense, agreeing to a trade with the New England Patriots for linebacker Marte Mapu, according to a league source.

In the deal, Houston will send a 2027 sixth-round draft pick to New England in exchange for Mapu and a 2027 seventh-round selection, adding a versatile young defender to their roster.

Mapu, a 26-year-old former third-round pick in 2023, brings size and athleticism to the Texans' linebacker corps. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 230 pounds, he has appeared in 44 games over his first three seasons, making 10 starts.

His 2025 campaign showed his playmaking potential, as he recorded 25 combined tackles, five passes defensed, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and an interception across 17 games. This followed a 2024 season where he posted a career-high 46 tackles in just 10 appearances, demonstrating his ability to be a productive force when on the field.

This trade represents a strategic acquisition for a Texans team looking to build on their recent success, adding depth and defensive flexibility as they prepare for the upcoming season.