Houston Texans: Seven free agent options at tight end

Dec 13, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos tight end Vernon Davis (80) carries the football after a reception in the first quarter against the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos tight end Vernon Davis (80) carries the football after a reception in the first quarter against the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 25, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers tight end Ladarius Green (89) catches a second quarter pass as Oakland Raiders outside linebacker Malcolm Smith (53) defends at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 25, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers tight end Ladarius Green (89) catches a second quarter pass as Oakland Raiders outside linebacker Malcolm Smith (53) defends at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Ladarius Green, San Diego Chargers, 25 years old

A military child born in Germany, Ladarius Green has been considered the heir apparent to Antonio Gates in San Diego for a couple of seasons now. However, he still seems to have failed to take that next step the Chargers are expecting him to.

2015 was his best NFL season, as he recorded 37 receptions for 429 yards and four touchdown passes, but those numbers aren’t exactly what some expected from the 6’6″ pass catching tight end.

As he now enters free agency, it may be possible the Chargers decide to let him test the market rather than overpay the 25-year old.

A former track and field runner in college, the athletic Green should have several suitors should his current team let him test the market, and Houston could be one such team looking to bring him in.

While his run blocking isn’t on par with most tight ends, the 240 pounder would be a match up issue for opposing linebackers and safeties. Pairing him in the passing game with the dynamic receiver DeAndre Hopkins could help Green finally break out the way many thought based on his preseason showings and athleticism.

Next: Low risk, high ceiling?