The Texans needed another safety after losing starter Jason Simmons for the season with a torn patellar tendon Sunday. They were already without Glenn Earl, who fractured his foot in the exhibition opener.

Houston placed Simmons on the injured reserve today.

Demps, a former New York Giant, dislocated his elbow in a preseason game Aug. 19 and was placed on the injured reserve when New York reduced its roster to 53 players on Sept. 1. He received an injury settlement a few days later and became a free agent.

His agent, Tony Agnone, said Demps is already in Houston and has passed a physical.

The 27-year-old, who spent his first four seasons in Baltimore, signed a five-year, $12 million contract before last season. He started 17 games in 2006 and finished with 100 tackles and two interceptions, but lost his starting job to James Butler in the offseason.

Agnone said Demps was courted by several teams, but decided Houston would be the best fit for the 6-foot, 208-pound player.

"The Texans were pretty aggressive about it," Agnone said. "He had about four or five opportunities, but the Texans were very aggressive about getting him there."