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The Texans are parting ways with a pair of veteran defenders. ESPN reports that Houston is releasing cornerback Desmond King the Second and linebacker Christian Kirksey. King started 25 games for the Texans over the past two seasons, amassing 182 tackles and five interceptions. Kirksey was a team captain last season and finished the year with 124 tackles, three sacks, five passes defended and a pair of interceptions. The 30-year-old linebacker missed most of training camp with a hamstring injury. His release will save Houston 5.2-million dollars. Houston must have its roster trimmed to 53 players by today's 4 P.M. Eastern deadline.