Houston Texans: 5 Ideal Free Agent Acquisitions

Damon “Snacks” Harrison – Defensive Tackle (Detroit Lions), Age: 31

Key 2019 Stats: 49 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 TFLs, 3 passes defended

The goal for right now for the Texans should be to retain budding star defensive tackle D.J. Reader to keep their defensive line intact. Some believe the Texans are willing to spend significant money to ensure his return, but others seem doubtful the franchise can match his asking price.

As an insurance policy, one of the best run-stuffers in the NFL is currently a free agent after he was released by the Detroit Lions earlier this offseason. It could be “Snacks” time in Houston.

Damon Harrison has thrived as a pure nose tackle as a member of the New York Jets, New York Giants and Lions despite now hitting free agency early at the ending stages of his prime. Once a premier free-agent signing, he can now likely be signed at a discounted rate at this point.

Weighing in at a monstrous 350 pounds, the 6-3 defensive tackle will shore up the middle of the field next to J.J. Watt and Angelo Blackson to clog up rushing lanes. Last offseason, he signed a one year, $11 million extension with the Lions, and although his value has not clearly diminished, he likely won’t earn as much this season.

Harrison’s next deal could be in the ballpark of a two-year, $19 million range, which is less than what Reader would be worth if he hits the open market. Reader is approaching elite status and may have earned a top-flight deal elsewhere, but Harrison would absolutely be a serviceable replacement if he were to leave the team.