Defensive tackle Vince Wilfork has announced that he has signed for the Houston Texans.
The 33-year-old was told by the New England Patriots that they would not be using the option on his contract for the 2015 season, allowing him to leave the club in free agency, following their Super Bowl triumph.
Three teams were in the hunt to sign Wilfork, but he has opted to join up with former Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien, who is now head coach of the Texans, on a two-year contract.
"This has been an interesting process for me and my family, one we have taken very seriously and given a lot of thought," Wilfork said on Twitter.
"We want to thank the Kraft family and the entire Patriot organisation for the last 11 years however we will be starting a new chapter in our lives as Houston Texans.
"The coaching staff in Houston has made this new exciting transition feel like home to us. We will forever be Patriots in our hearts, thank you everyone for everything."
Wilfork recorded 516 tackles, 16 sacks and three interceptions in his 11 years with the Patriots.
Simon Sinclair
