Houston Texans Andre Johnson Will Seek A Trade
After twelve seasons, the greatest single player the Houston Texans have ever had on their roster appears to have played his last game in Houston. On Monday, it was reported that the Texans will allow All-Pro wide recevier Andre Johnson to seek a trade.
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According to the Houston Chronicle’s John McClain, who broke the story, if Johnson is unable to find a trade partner, then Houston will release him. Both sides apparently agreed to these terms after the veteran wide out was notified he’d have a reduced role this upcoming season.
If no trade can't be worked out for Johnson, he'll be cut and free to sign with any team after 12 seasons with the Texans.
— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) March 3, 2015
It was expected that the Texans would attempt to force the veteran receiver to take a pay cut this offseason in order to remain on the team. This after posting his lowest statical totals since 2005 last season. (barring two injury-plagued seasons).
In 2014, Johnson recorded 85 receptions for 936 yards and three touchdowns. He was scheduled to make up to $23.5 million in the next two years.
Despite turning 34-years old in July, many seem to believe Johnson still has gas left in the tank. If he’d like to end his career trying to win a Super Bowl, receiver-needy teams like the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots certainly make sense.
As for the Texans, they’ll start the hunt for Johnson’s replacement when free agency begins on March 10th. Possible free agent receivers include Jeremy Maclin, Reggie Wayne, Michael Crabtree, Cecil Shorts, Denarius Moore and Randall Cobb.
But a better option for the Texans would probably the NFL Draft, as this year’s receiving class is possibly one of the best in years. With prospects like: Amari Cooper, Alabama – Kevin White, West Virginia – DeVante Parker, Louisville – Jaelen Strong, Arizona St. – Dorial Green-Beckham, Missouri available.
The Texans would most certainly be able to snag one of these top receivers as they hold the 16th overall pick in the first round.
Johnson ends a stellar career in Houston recording 1,012 receptions for 13,597 yards and 64 touchdowns. He’s current 13th on the NFL’s All-Time Receiving Yards list. Johnson is a seven-time Pro Bowler, a two-time first team NFL All-Pro and a five-time Texans’ team MVP.