Texans activate Brennan Scarlett, cut Al-Hajj Shabazz

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The Texans made it official, activating rookie outside linebacker Brennan Scarlett from injured reserve in advance of Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Scarlett replaces cornerback Al-Hajj Shabazz on the active roster. Shabazz was placed on waivers Saturday.

Scarlett was designated for return Thursday. He was placed on injured reserve earlier this season with a hamstring injury.

“I’m just thankful for the opportunity that they see enough of me to put me back on the active roster and go out and help this team win,” Scarlett said Friday. “I definitely just try to get better every time I step on the field and play hard and do my best out there and rely on my preparation.

Scarlett went undrafted out of Stanford. The Texans are enamored of Scarlett’s size at 6-4, 260 pounds and athleticism.

Scarlett recorded two tackles in five games this season. He displayed potential as a pass rusher during the preseason, earning a roster spot.

Houston Texans linebacker Brennan Scarlett goes through warmups prior to a preseason NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday Sept. 1, 2016, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth) Houston Texans linebacker Brennan Scarlett goes through warmups prior to a preseason NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday Sept. 1, 2016, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth) Photo: Michael Ainsworth, Associated Press Photo: Michael Ainsworth, Associated Press Image 1 of / 6 Caption Close Texans activate Brennan Scarlett, cut Al-Hajj Shabazz 1 / 6 Back to Gallery

“I got more comfortable with the game,” said Scarlett, who had 5 ½ sacks, eight tackles for losses and 37 tackles at Stanford last season when he was named honorable-mention All-Pac-12 Conference. “Things are slowing down for me. Now, it’s a matter of shaking the rust off and getting back out there. It’s really timing, pass rush, knowing when to swipe your hands. Physically, I feel great.”