Houston Texans: Five safety free agent options

Jan 9, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Kansas City Chiefs free safety Eric Berry (29) reacts after intercepting a pass against the Houston Texans during the first quarter in a AFC Wild Card playoff football game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Kansas City Chiefs free safety Eric Berry (29) reacts after intercepting a pass against the Houston Texans during the first quarter in a AFC Wild Card playoff football game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 6, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers free safety Eric Weddle (32) looks across the line during the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers free safety Eric Weddle (32) looks across the line during the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Eric Weddle, San Diego Chargers 31 years old

The San Diego Chargers defensive leader Eric Weddle seems to have been in the NFL forever, but at 31-years-old, he actually still has plenty of time to be an effective player still.

Set to hit the open market after a down season in which he had zero interceptions for the first time in his career. He also missed three games, which again was out of the norm for him as Weddle had not missed a start since the 2009 season.

Still in his 13 games Weddle played hard and recorded 78 tackles and six pass deflections. The nine-year pro has 850 career tackles, 19 interceptions and 3 defensive touchdowns.

While he may have lost a step, he could provide an upgrade still for the Texans and be a great veteran leader for a rather young backfield. The real question won’t be age or talent, but rather price. Weddle was once one of the premier safeties in the game and paid as such.

At this point, if he is looking to break the bank it may be wise to pass on the veteran. However, if he is looking for a modest contract, Houston could benefit from his experience.

Next: Another Vanderbilt player for the secondary