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The Houston Texans admitted a $5 million mistake Tuesday. They cut veteran safety Ed Reed, a person with knowledge of the situation told USA TODAY Sports.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team had not announced the move.

Reed, 35, signed a three-year, $14.875 million contract with the Texans in March after 11 seasons with the Baltimore Ravens in hopes of chasing another Super Bowl.

THE Q: Reed questions Texans' coaching

But the Texans have struggled during an injury-marred season, and Reed was reduced to a reserve role, posting no interceptions in seven games (five starts) this season.

Reed went public with his displeasure after Sunday's loss to the Arizona Cardinals, saying the Texans were "outplayed and outcoached" while dropping to 2-7.

Those comments weren't well-received at Texans headquarters, and cutting Reed — whose contract included $5 million guaranteed — frees up reps for younger players.

He is subject to waivers, as all players are after the trading deadline, and could draw interest given his modest $1 million base salary, plus $62,500 roster bonuses for each week he's active.

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