The Texans didn't submit a qualifying tender offer for five-time Pro Bowl nose tackle Vince Wilfork and four other veteran unrestricted free agents.
Wilfork has long been expected to retire, but hasn't officially submitted any paperwork. His two-year, $9 million contract has expired.
The Texans also didn't submit a qualifying tender offer for defensive ends Antonio Smith and Devon Still, running back Jonathan Grimes and linebacker Akeem Dent.
If the players sign with another NFL team, they won't count toward the compensatory draft pick formula for the 2018 league year.
The Texans are expected to be awarded a third-round compensatory draft pick next year for cornerback A.