2. Overhaul the offense in free agency
In terms of production-to-pay ratio, the Houston Texans are in a fantastic situation at quarterback. Deshaun Watson is currently on a rookie deal, which averages at $4.1 million per year for the next two years. His rookie contract and remarkable production give the Texans a rare opportunity to go all in around him like the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams did in 2018.
So what does going all in around Watson look like? Well, paying Le’Veon Bell what he wants on a front-loaded contract is a good start.
Some might hate the idea of adding Bell to the Texans, and for a good reason. Not only does Bell want to be the highest paid running back in NFL history despite forgoing the entire 2018 season, but he will also be 27 by the time the season starts. Nonetheless, age and money shouldn’t stop the Texans from adding a potential key piece to their already star-studded offense.
Bell is the epitome of a three-down, bell-cow back. He can be effective running the ball in any scheme due to his patience, power, agility and size. He is also useful in the passing department, which is a plus for the Texans offense too. Not only is Bell elite when it comes to receiving ability for a back, but his pass protection is also some of the leagues best regarding running backs.
Yes, Bell will come at a high price, presumptively north of $14 million a year, but the Texans current core Super Bowl window is small. Adding a back of Bell’s caliber will help open that window.
The Texans should have enough cap space (even before cuts and trades) after signing Bell, Clowney and possibly one of Mathieu or Jackson to pursue Patriots left tackle, Trent Brown.
Though the 6-8, 380-pound mauler has some questions surrounding his ability to stop a speed rush, he is the best option in a weak left tackle free agent class and will only be 26 by the start of the ’19 season. He also would project as an upgrade over incumbent starter Julie’n Davenport.