C Chris Myers signs with Texans; G Mike Brisiel heads to Oakland

Positive news on the free agency front for the Houston Texans tonight as the team reached an agreement with Pro Bowl C Chris Myers, according to ESPN NFL Insider’s Adam Schefter. The deal is reportedly worth $25 million over four years, with $14 million guaranteed.

In other news, Mike Brisiel, who started at right guard for the Texans last season, just signed a new deal with the Oakland Raiders, his agent Jeff Sperbeck said on Twitter. John McClain at HoustonChronicle reported the details of the contract, which stands at $20 million over five years.

When it seems more and more likely that the Texans are bound to undergo a thorough revamping on the offensive line, they managed to retain its center and captain Chris Myers. Considering how teams are overpaying for offensive linemen on the free agent market, $25 million over four years sounds like a good deal for the Texans. Great job yet again, Rick Smith!

With Brisiel, I can’t fault the Texans for letting him go. Brisiel’s toughness is undeniable, as playing through fractured fibula is no small feat. He’s also a terrific blocker, evidenced by his one sack allowed in 13 starts last season. Having said that, $20 million and five years is definitely an overpay. With the Texans’ cap status at the moment, it’s understandable that they could not match Oakland’s offer, nor should they have matched it anyway.

Texans fans can breathe more easily now that Myers will remain a Texan. However, with the departure of Brisiel and Winston, the right side of the team’s offensive line will be totally different next season. A combination of Rashard Butler, Antoine Caldwell and draft picks should figure to take over the right side next season.

For now, Texans fans, rejoice! Chris Myers is not going anywhere!