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2017 Texans Free Agents/Salary Cap Situation: Where do we stand?

JB said:
Agree with the most part, but to continue the discussion on Clark, he played ok subbing for Brown. Overall it's been an ok signing. Allen has been a terrible signing unless there is injury we don't know but team does. Bergstrom was just terrible. Lots of bad luck on OL, and I think also sub par coaching
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It would be hard to comment on the coaching. Mancz seem to do a fine job, that was a real find by Rick and company, or maybe good coaching? Filo turned it on late, he finally showed something, though he's still a huge question mark in pass pro. Aboushi played above his contract. Arguments on both sides in regards to coaching.

Disagree that Clark was ok in any aspect. He's been regarded as one of the worst tackles to play last year by many.

My main hope for the OL is that we draft several players, atleast one early, that can not only improve our play, but keep us from having to spend a ton of FA money again. Clark, Allen, Bergstrom, and Newton cost us a lot of money combined. I can live with missed draft selections over throwing away mid range money on a bunch of fliers, essentially. One hit wonders mostly.
 
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TexansSeminole said:
It would be hard to comment on the coaching. Mancz seem to do a fine job, that was a real find by Rick and company, or maybe good coaching? Filo turned it on late, he finally showed something, though he's still a huge question mark in pass pro. Aboushi played above his contract. Arguments on both sides in regards to coaching.

Disagree that Clark was ok in any aspect. He's been regarded as one of the worst tackles to play last year by many.

My main hope for the OL is that we draft several players, atleast one early, that can not only improve our play, but keep us from having to spend a ton of FA money again. Clark, Allen, Bergstrom, and Newton cost us a lot of money combined. I can live with missed draft selections over throwing away mid range money on a bunch of fliers, essentially. One hit wonders mostly.
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Agree to disagree on Clark, tho I'd like to see an upgrade. We'll draft at least one tackle. I think(hope,pray) that our OL will be better next year.

I'd like to see our defense better (points allowed ) also. We can't totally ignore that again
 
JB said:
Agree to disagree on Clark, tho I'd like to see an upgrade. We'll draft at least one tackle. I think(hope,pray) that our OL will be better next year.

I'd like to see our defense better (points allowed ) also. We can't totally ignore that again
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Agree on defense, but I don't think we need to draft a lot of defenders.

In regards to defense, I think a safety and a coverage linebacker would help the most in improving the defense. We actually did really well considering our safety play last year. If we could get a safety who is well rounded, this defense could improve quite a bit. I've been trying to watch tape on the safeties in this draft, not only because I like watching defensive back play, but because we really need it. There are a bunch of intriguing guys at the position this year, and there isn't a lack of diversity in skill set either. They'll have options at that position throughout the draft.
 
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steelbtexan said:
Cutting Cush and Weeden saves more than 4 mil. If I had to cut JoJo to save another 6.5 I would. How much do you think bringing in a vet like Cutler would cost? Point is they could bring in a vet QB if they wanted too>

Yes, I'm a Savage guy, but I don't trust him to stay healthy. I sign Cutler, make Savage the backup, draft Mahomes and make Os the waterboy. Brown is going to laugh at them if they ask him to take a paycut. He was their best OL last yr. Even though that isn't really saying much.
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I gotcha, so have 4 QBs on Roster and pay the position ~$40 M and don't need to restructure Duane Brown (who's market is no longer $10 M per year).

Then we let AJB walk and then you cut our #1 DB?

I guess we will just agree to disagree.
 
TexansSeminole said:
Why would Brown restructure? We aren't going to cut him and that threat is the only reason a player will restructure. We have nobody to replace him, his position is extremely crucial, and he knows it. Not at all prime.

A candidate for restructure is Cushing. If he's not cut this year, he's a likely cut next year. McKinney has the same skill set except he's now better and he's younger than Cushing. We save $5.113M by cutting him this year and $8.5M next year (with only $1.2M in dead money). Restructuring him saves us money vs the cap this year and also strengthens his chances at staying with the team beyond this year. If I were him, I'd prefer to restructure and if I were the Texans I wouldn't restructure his deal. Keep him this year while we groom a replacement that we acquire in the draft, then cut him next year. Restructuring him only puts us on the hook for more future dead money with him, but if they are strapped for cash for this year's cap, or are in love with the rookie they draft, maybe they cut him.

I don't see anyone else on the team that is a candidate to restructure their deal.
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I believe you are what your market says that you are. And Duane Brown's market is not a 2 year / $20 M LT any longer. He will not command that money in free agency at all and if you believe otherwise go look at Donald Penn last year.

Here is a link to his current salary: http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/oakland-raiders/donald-penn-3007/

This guy has protected Derek Carr's blind side since day 1 of Carr's career and hasn't missed a game in 10 years and graded out as a better tackle and is getting paid ~ half of DB's contract. Raiders didn't have a replacement for him either.

NFL is a business and a dirty one at that, if you aren't willing to restructure your contract get ready to uproot your family and your livelihood to go make less money in a new city. I don't believe it's absurd to ask DB to take a restructure and I believe many aren't aware just how many people get restructured every season for more cap friendly deals.
 
TexansSeminole said:
If you draft players in 2016 based on those contracts either expiring or those players being let go next year, it lines up pretty nicely with 2016 needs anyway. CB (replaces JJo), ILB (replaces Cushing), RT (replaces Newton and Clark), G (replaces Jeff Allen), QB (replaces Osweiler). Draft a safety and maybe another LBer or a TE and I'm happy with that scenario, given the alternatives.
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We've tried to replace JJo in several drafts now, and every season this guy is always the #1 CB on the team, even when he tears his groin.
 
PapaL said:
How much longer do you think this streak continues?
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Not much longer obviously, he's getting old and his 4.3 speed looking like it's starting to fade a bit, but I believe it's asinine to assume you can cut the most underrated CB in the league to save $6 M and just replace him like it's nothing.

For the football he puts on the field and the job required of him, I have zero issue paying this guy $6.5 M every year he remains in the NFL at that level. He's been one of the biggest DB steals in the NFL for many moons and basically the only reason I've ever praised Rick Smith.
 
@TexansFTW Ok, so you cut Brown, because he won't restructure. What are you going to do now? His backup is an UDFA with zero experience. Chris Clark is now your only tackle on roster that has played before and he's bad.

Btw, Penn didn't restructure, he was signed as an UFA after his contract expired, which means he was able to test the market.
 
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TexansFTW said:
I gotcha, so have 4 QBs on Roster and pay the position ~$40 M and don't need to restructure Duane Brown (who's market is no longer $10 M per year).

Then we let AJB walk and then you cut our #1 DB?

I guess we will just agree to disagree.
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Yep

I'm OK with letting AJB walk. I'm very leery of guys who only play well during their contract yrs. See; Newton

Yes, 40 mil for only 1 yr to solve the QB problem is well worth it to solve an eyesore that has existed since the BOB hire. After next yr you cut Os and hopefully the draft pick is ready to play. If not you sign another vet like Cutler, or if you get lucky you find out that Savage is the guy.
 
TexansFTW said:
Not much longer obviously, he's getting old and his 4.3 speed looking like it's starting to fade a bit, but I believe it's asinine to assume you can cut the most underrated CB in the league to save $6 M and just replace him like it's nothing.

For the football he puts on the field and the job required of him, I have zero issue paying this guy $6.5 M every year he remains in the NFL at that level. He's been one of the biggest DB steals in the NFL for many moons and basically the only reason I've ever praised Rick Smith.
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I'm always amazed when folks say we can cut JJo and Cush and save X amount of $. ONly to replace them with Vet minimums and they think the team will be better. I give Wade credit for JJo, it's one of the first things he did as the Texans DC was sign JJo.

TexansSeminole said:
@TexansFTW Ok, so you cut Brown, because he won't restructure. What are you going to do now? His backup is an UDFA with zero experience. Chris Clark is now your only tackle on roster that has played before and he's bad.

Btw, Penn didn't restructure, he was signed as an UFA after his contract expired, which means he was able to test the market.
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This is a BIG reason I'm not a Rick Smith fan. Since the day that Eric Winston left I've been touting a top OT in almost every draft. I started with Bryan Bulaga, then wanted Cordy Glenn, next wanted Jake Fisher and last year Jason Spriggs. Smith is touted a GM but does not engage in GM think. Smith is more in tuned with Coach Think, more preparation for the season at hand and not so much with a four year plan.
 
Texian said:
I'm always amazed when folks say we can cut JJo and Cush and save X amount of $. ONly to replace them with Vet minimums and they think the team will be better. I give Wade credit for JJo, it's one of the first things he did as the Texans DC was sign JJo.



This is a BIG reason I'm not a Rick Smith fan. Since the day that Eric Winston left I've been touting a top OT in almost every draft. I started with Bryan Bulaga, then wanted Cordy Glenn, next wanted Jake Fisher and last year Jason Spriggs. Smith is touted a GM but does not engage in GM think. Smith is more in tuned with Coach Think, more preparation for the season at hand and not so much with a four year plan.
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It's probably going to come down to letting Bouye walk or cutting JoJo. For the record I'm ok with letting Bouye walk and replacing him with a FA or draft pick. Use the cap space for Bouye on rebuilding the OL.
 
TexansSeminole said:
Agree on defense, but I don't think we need to draft a lot of defenders.

In regards to defense, I think a safety and a coverage linebacker would help the most in improving the defense. We actually did really well considering our safety play last year. If we could get a safety who is well rounded, this defense could improve quite a bit. I've been trying to watch tape on the safeties in this draft, not only because I like watching defensive back play, but because we really need it. There are a bunch of intriguing guys at the position this year, and there isn't a lack of diversity in skill set either. They'll have options at that position throughout the draft.
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They should have drafted an OT last year to atleast develop, but this should be given an absolutely top priority along with QB in the '17 Draft. IMO it was ill advised to draft Ervin when we already had that guy on the roster in Hunt which made Ervin basically a luxury.
We are being told it's a weak year for OTs but strong for guards. Even talented college guards rarely can sucessfully play LOT in the NFL but sometimes they are very capable ROTs which is generally speaking more about blocking for rushing plays than pass pro. So along with QB lets hope the Texans target a top college guard who can play tackle or a capable tackle.
 
Texans unlikely to use franchise tag
February 15, 2017

Although the Texans ideally would like to retain free agent cornerback A.J. Bouye and hammer out a contract extension, a relatively tight salary-cap situation is expected to preclude them from designating him as their franchise player.

The Texans have roughly $25 million in projected salary-cap space and it would cost just over $14 million to retain Bouye under a one-year franchise tender, all of which would count against the salary cap for the 2017 fiscal year.


Tuesday marks the first day NFL teams can use the franchise or transition tags. The deadline to use them is March 1. Free agency begins March 9.

Bouye has emerged as a hot commodity as an unrestricted free agent following a breakthrough season in which he intercepted two passes in the playoffs, including New England Patriots star quarterback Tom Brady once. The former undrafted free agent began the season as the fourth cornerback, but became a starter and led the AFC South champions' top-ranked defense with 16 passes defended.

A former undrafted free agent from Central Florida, Bouye declined a small, multiyear contract offer last spring to play this past season, betting on himself and instead playing under a one-year, $1.671 million salary.

Now, Bouye is poised to cash in whether it's with the Texans or in another NFL city. Bouye could land a huge payday given the need for big, fast cornerbacks like him in a passing league.

"It's pretty fun," Bouye said. "I'm just taking it all in. It's something new to me, just enjoying every moment. It's big when you see people recognize what you do.

"I'm just excited for the future because I know there's a higher ceiling and more things I got to do. I'm excited to put in the work and just be back out there, wherever it's at."

The Texans have former first-round draft pick Kevin Johnson returning from foot surgery. Veteran cornerback Johnathan Joseph said he wants to keep playing. The Texans also have starting cornerback Kareem Jackson under contract.

A deal for Bouye is expected to be expensive. Top cornerbacks average between $12 million to $14 million annually.

The Texans have historically eschewed using the franchise tag.

They've used it only once in the history of the franchise, assigning it to cornerback Dunta Robinson in 2009 at a cost of a one-year, $9.957 million tender.

Robinson was upset about receiving the tag and sat out the entire traning camp before finally signing the tender one week before the season-opener. During that first game against the New York Jets, Robinson's cleats had the message "Pay Me Rick," directed at Texans general manager Rick Smith. Robinson was fined $25,000 by the NFL for wearing the shoes.

Robinson wound up leaving the Texans as a free agent the following year, signing a six-year, $54 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons that included $22.5 million guaranteed.

As he prepares for free agency, Bouye is maintaining a patient approach.

"Most definitely, my dad (Steve Bouye) he's the one who talks about it more than me," Bouye said. "I spend more time with my daughter. I'm trying to travel, spend time with my cousin, that's my main thing.

"I really don't think about it right now. My agent (Fred Lyles) says he's going to take care of me on everything."

Jackson is due a $6.5 million base salary with a $8.968 million salary-cap figure. Joseph is due a $6 million base salary and carries a $6.096 million salary-cap figure. And Johnson is entering the third year of his $10.09 million rookie contract.

The Texans would like to find a way to keep Bouye, though.

"I certainly couldn't be any more proud of any of our players than I am of A.J. with the way he improved his play and his confidence," Smith said. "I think he had an outstanding year. I've said many, many times you can't have too many corners. We've talked about that a lot.

"I think he's a fine young man. He fits our profile and we certainly would like to have him back and we're going to do everything we can to get that done."
 
I think the problem with the FA Offensive line signings is that they have tried to be cheap. Guards are no longer cheap in this league, its changing. You either pay up or go to the draft, you don't half ass it. There's They signed Allen a guy with one good year to a deal worth 7 MIL a year. We know what a good guard looks like and one that gets paid. Instead of paying Brooks they tried to make a lukewarm investment in Allen with less guaranteed money. You have to be so much smarter than everyone else if you don't make the real investment. If your not going to make a real investment you might as well go to the draft, there's always decent guys in the 3rd round, but if you want a real player you have to make the commitment because someone else will. This year there are guys who can play, but you have to pay up, getting a guy like Zeitler, Leary, Lang, Warford is gonna take commitment. Its understandable if you want to go through the draft instead, but the middle in my mind just isn't smart. At least Allen can be cut after this year with little negative impact, but now your in the same boat. They should have just kept Brooks or drafted a guy last year. The problem isn't their ability to pick a guy, its the unwillingness to make a real commitment. Maybe Allen was just a temporary solution in their eyes and was never suppose to be here more than two years?

Take a look
Brandon Brooks
CONTRACT:5 yr(s) / $40,000,000 SIGNING BONUS$11,000,000 AVERAGE SALARY$8,000,000 GUARANTEED:$21,000,000
Jeff Allen
CONTRACT:4 yr(s) / $28,000,000 SIGNING BONUS$5,000,000 AVERAGE SALARY$7,000,000 GUARANTEED:$12,000,000

Almost the same money if you keep them, but much easier to get rid of Allen, so it looks like they never really thought Allen was gonna live out his contract, because if that is the case they should have just kept Brooks.
 
IDEXAN said:
They should have drafted an OT last year to atleast develop, but this should be given an absolutely top priority along with QB in the '17 Draft. IMO it was ill advised to draft Ervin when we already had that guy on the roster in Hunt which made Ervin basically a luxury.
We are being told it's a weak year for OTs but strong for guards. Even talented college guards rarely can sucessfully play LOT in the NFL but sometimes they are very capable ROTs which is generally speaking more about blocking for rushing plays than pass pro. So along with QB lets hope the Texans target a top college guard who can play tackle or a capable tackle.
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Sounds like you're describing Dan Feeney/Taylor Moton. I wonder if Pocic can play RT? He's played all along the OL at LSU. Very physical.
 
TexansSeminole said:
@TexansFTW Ok, so you cut Brown, because he won't restructure. What are you going to do now? His backup is an UDFA with zero experience. Chris Clark is now your only tackle on roster that has played before and he's bad.

Btw, Penn didn't restructure, he was signed as an UFA after his contract expired, which means he was able to test the market.
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When did I say to cut Duane Brown? I've never once said nor implied you cut him. I said he's a prime restructure candidate. If you've ever negotiated anything in life you know it doesn't have to Absolute side A or Absolute Side B. Sometimes side B can use leverage to get met part way in negotiations and vice versa.

I'm very well aware what Donald Penn did, I linked his contract showing he was signed as a FA. I'm telling you what his open market was worth. A guy that has played more consistent and better football for 2 years prior to becoming a Free Agent received a 2 year / $11.8 M contract, which is less than 2 year / ~$19 M of what Duane Brown is set to receive. Donald Penn tested Duane Brown's market for him and created room for Texans salary cap people to have a talk w/ DB.
 
TexansSeminole said:
Agree on defense, but I don't think we need to draft a lot of defenders.

In regards to defense, I think a safety and a coverage linebacker would help the most in improving the defense. We actually did really well considering our safety play last year. If we could get a safety who is well rounded, this defense could improve quite a bit. I've been trying to watch tape on the safeties in this draft, not only because I like watching defensive back play, but because we really need it. There are a bunch of intriguing guys at the position this year, and there isn't a lack of diversity in skill set either. They'll have options at that position throughout the draft.
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I think another guy who can add pass rush is needed as well, whether it be from one of the DL or the LB positions, you can never have enough. If there is one on the board at 25 and not one of the 3 tackles it would be a good move.
 
jradMIT said:
I think the problem with the FA Offensive line signings is that they have tried to be cheap. Guards are no longer cheap in this league, its changing. You either pay up or go to the draft, you don't half ass it. There's They signed Allen a guy with one good year to a deal worth 7 MIL a year. We know what a good guard looks like and one that gets paid. Instead of paying Brooks they tried to make a lukewarm investment in Allen with less guaranteed money. You have to be so much smarter than everyone else if you don't make the real investment. If your not going to make a real investment you might as well go to the draft, there's always decent guys in the 3rd round, but if you want a real player you have to make the commitment because someone else will. This year there are guys who can play, but you have to pay up, getting a guy like Zeitler, Leary, Lang, Warford is gonna take commitment. Its understandable if you want to go through the draft instead, but the middle in my mind just isn't smart. At least Allen can be cut after this year with little negative impact, but now your in the same boat. They should have just kept Brooks or drafted a guy last year. The problem isn't their ability to pick a guy, its the unwillingness to make a real commitment. Maybe Allen was just a temporary solution in their eyes and was never suppose to be here more than two years?

Take a look
Brandon Brooks
CONTRACT:5 yr(s) / $40,000,000 SIGNING BONUS$11,000,000 AVERAGE SALARY$8,000,000 GUARANTEED:$21,000,000
Jeff Allen
CONTRACT:4 yr(s) / $28,000,000 SIGNING BONUS$5,000,000 AVERAGE SALARY$7,000,000 GUARANTEED:$12,000,000

Almost the same money if you keep them, but much easier to get rid of Allen, so it looks like they never really thought Allen was gonna live out his contract, because if that is the case they should have just kept Brooks.
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We are talking about Ricky McNair here and smart and Ricky don't go hand in hand. Unless you're talking about Ricky becoming part of the McNair family. If that's the case then little Ricky's a genius.
 
TexansFTW said:
When did I say to cut Duane Brown? I've never once said nor implied you cut him. I said he's a prime restructure candidate. If you've ever negotiated anything in life you know it doesn't have to Absolute side A or Absolute Side B. Sometimes side B can use leverage to get met part way in negotiations and vice versa.

I'm very well aware what Donald Penn did, I linked his contract showing he was signed as a FA. I'm telling you what his open market was worth. A guy that has played more consistent and better football for 2 years prior to becoming a Free Agent received a 2 year / $11.8 M contract, which is less than 2 year / ~$19 M of what Duane Brown is set to receive. Donald Penn tested Duane Brown's market for him and created room for Texans salary cap people to have a talk w/ DB.
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You're missing the point. What if Duane Brown says he doesn't want to restructure, what are you going to do, cut him?

TexansFTW said:
NFL is a business and a dirty one at that, if you aren't willing to restructure your contract get ready to uproot your family and your livelihood to go make less money in a new city.
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An extension like @infantrycak pointed out is much more likely. Brown is not going to restructure the last two years on his deal without getting more years on the contract, he has no reason to do that.

Maybe we are talking about the same thing though. When I hear restructure, I'm not thinking extension of any kind, just lower cap hit, over the same number of years. With extension, I'm thinking rip up the current contract and start with a new one that covers more years.
 
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TexansSeminole said:
An extension like @infantrycak pointed out is much more likely. Brown is not going to restructure the last two years on his deal without getting more years on the contract, he has no reason to do that.

Maybe we are talking about the same thing though. When I hear restructure, I'm not thinking extension of any kind, just lower cap hit, over the same number of years. With extension, I'm thinking rip up the current contract and start with a new one that covers more years.
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An extension is basically another form of restructure that I was including in this whole talk.
 
TexansFTW said:
An extension is basically another form of restructure that I was including in this whole talk.
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That makes sense then. I try to say one or the other, because they are imply dramatically different things.

I'd still hold off on an extension with Brown. He's on the books for 2 more years at $9.65mil in 2017 and $9.75mil in 2018, but he has zero guaranteed money left, which means zero dead cap if cut. That goes for both 2017 or 2018. Let him prove in 2017 that the injury is truly behind him and that he hasn't lost ability to play at a high level. We are essentially renting him yearly at a high rate, but with a no termination fee policy right now. I'd want to go through FA, the draft, and the season before handing Brown more guaranteed money. This way you have flexibility if he falls off or shows that his injury is an issue long term, or if a rookie/FA shows out and you think you've found a new LT. Brown could be a cheaper RT on an extension or cut outright for any number of reasons ahead of the 2018 season. He makes a lot, but is handing him guaranteed money worth saving ~$3mil of cap savings this year and ~2.5mil of cap savings next year?

I like the position that we are in with Duane Brown's contract right now. I have to give Rick and the cap team credit for the structure of this contract. It gives us a lot of flexibility. I just wish they would have followed it up with some OT prospects in the draft and really took advantage of its structure.
 
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Just a gut feeling, but AJ Bouye's situation gives me flashbacks to Glover Quin. Since he left we've had a bit of a revolving door at safety. With J-Jo's age and a healthy Kevin Johnson back next year, it wouldn't hurt to have the CB spots locked down. Maybe shift Kareem to the back end.
 
If you don't sign Bouye, then your gonna have to draft another CB in the draft. I feel like you need 4 cb's in this group with the injury risk.
 
infantrycak said:
The 30 and dead rule applies to RBs not OL many of whom play into their late 30s. Brown is 31right now. If anything now might be a good time to give him a 2 year extension and lower his cap hits.
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Hey I-man I'm right there with you on Brown because I think it's imperative to resign him for 2017 to be able to defend our division title and return to the playoffs. We might get a capable starting RT in the Draft or free agency this year but we won't find 2 starting OTs. Yea we got to retain Brown even if that means committing to a multiple year contract.
 
TexansFTW said:
An extension is basically another form of restructure that I was including in this whole talk.
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Extension will do the trick.

Give Brown 3 yrs and spread the $$$$ out. He's not giving $$$$ back, you can bet on that.

I think we're on the same page. To be honest I'm no cap guy. I forget who the cap guy is on here, but he's really good and makes very accurate predictions.
 
I realize wanting to play for the future in a lot of these posts (younger, faster, cheaper), but you don't push out your best players. Even with our talent at corner, Joseph is our #1. At 30 years old and on one leg, brown was far and away our best offensive lineman. Cushing is a bit more complicated - he can still play, still mentor and the team will be worse without him - but he doesn't warrant the contract. He's a veteran that is a boon to have on the team, but not the playmaker - I don't know if there are options to remedy his salary without releasing him.
 
Scooter said:
I realize wanting to play for the future in a lot of these posts (younger, faster, cheaper), but you don't push out your best players. Even with our talent at corner, Joseph is our #1. At 30 years old and on one leg, brown was far and away our best offensive lineman. Cushing is a bit more complicated - he can still play, still mentor and the team will be worse without him - but he doesn't warrant the contract. He's a veteran that is a boon to have on the team, but not the playmaker - I don't know if there are options to remedy his salary without releasing him.
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Definitely agree with that sentiment.

My worry with Brown is the injury he suffered. I'm still not sure what it means for him long term, but I'm obviously not advocating cutting him this year. If he can show that he's still the same guy next season, I'd love to see them extend him.

Joseph is well worth his contract if he can keep his level of play up. I don't think you need to do anything with him. Just let him play out his contract. He'll be 34 in the 2018 season though, so re-signing him at that point might be a tricky gamble. They might be able to keep him around for cheap though.

I think Cushing is definitely gone after the 2017 season, I don't think there is any other way to remedy his contract either.

Question for people who follow contracts: how often do players on their rookie deal get extensions ahead of the last year of their deal? I'm not talking about 1st rounders on their 5th year option, but later round picks. I'm wondering how likely it is that we see an extension for guys like Hal, Fiedo, Su'a Filo. It seems like it would be beneficial for both parties under certain circumstances. For the player, it's obvious. For the team, maybe you can get them a little bit cheaper before they potentially have their best year, or maybe you can time the majority of their guaranteed money in years where it makes more sense than to wait a year?
 
My worry with Brown is the injury he suffered. I'm still not sure what it means for him long term, but I'm obviously not advocating cutting him this year. If he can show that he's still the same guy next season, I'd love to see them extend him.
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I don't want to contradict CND, but offensive linemen aren't human. They calmly walk off the field with injuries that put most other positions in casts and carts. Duane is one of those ... he wasn't supposed to play in the first half of the season. When he did play he was supposed to be obviously impaired. Instead, he was our anchor. True, he was FAR from being himself, but 1/2 of the real Duane Brown is still a great player. We have plenty of issues and DB's successor is eventually on the list, but unless there is a new injury, I would guess Duane has 3-5 more years at a very high level.
 
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steelbtexan said:
Yep

I'm OK with letting AJB walk. I'm very leery of guys who only play well during their contract yrs. See; Newton

Yes, 40 mil for only 1 yr to solve the QB problem is well worth it to solve an eyesore that has existed since the BOB hire. After next yr you cut Os and hopefully the draft pick is ready to play. If not you sign another vet like Cutler, or if you get lucky you find out that Savage is the guy.
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Just to be accurate, Bouye : 2014 14 games 59 tackles, 10 passes defended, 3 INTs, 1 TD. 2016 15 games, 63 tackles, 1 sack, 16 p def, 1 INT.
 
Here's an interesting turn of events:

Sometimes it makes sense to not cut a good player.

That’s what the Miami Dolphins are thinking now because the team has decided not to cut left tackle Branden Albert, after all.

Although the team had made a decision to release the 32-year-old veteran, spoke to him Thursday morning to break the news, and Albert told his agents he was out, the plans changed sometime Thursday afternoon.

...

Per a league source with knowledge of the issue, it seems there is sudden and significant interest from at least one and perhaps other teams in acquiring Albert. And that being the case, the Dolphins are apparently going to pause and assess the possibilities.
Click to expand...

Link

Could the Texans be in play here for Albert? He was their starting left tackle this past year and made the pro-bowl from that position in 2015.

He has cap hits of $10.6mil in 2017 and $11.3mil in 2018, with $1.7mil signing bonus allocations in each year. not a cheap contract, but he's a good player and the contract isn't long. Maybe they extend him upon trading for him and start with a new contract? Maybe we move Brown to RT if we were to make this move? An interesting option.

The other question is, what would we give up? It sounds like there are potentially multiple teams bidding for him, so I assume it's have to be something of atleast some value. I know the Dolphins need a cornerback. Perhaps they want Joseph, but I don't see us doing that unless we are prepared to sign Bouye.

Thoughts on this possibility?
 
CB Johnathan Joseph 4-16-1984 turns 33 in two months. LT Duane Brown turns 32 August 30th. I would expect to keep both this year and have player in waiting for 2018. Bouye could have a very low 2017 cap hit that increases a lot 2018. I expect to see same type contract for Hopkins; take the hit of $6 m dead for Osweiler and use the $15 m savings. I am more concerned with injuries for Joseph and Brown than age. Cushing savings in 2018 of $8.5 m again offers a total between two of $23.5 m. Let's not forget Hopkins plays 2017 at $8 m.
 
JB said:
Agree to disagree on Clark, tho I'd like to see an upgrade. We'll draft at least one tackle. I think(hope,pray) that our OL will be better next year.

I'd like to see our defense better (points allowed ) also. We can't totally ignore that again
Click to expand...

I'm with you on Clark.

We should not go in to 2017 thinking Clark will be starting. He's a back up, was signed as a backup & will fill in nicely if needed. He never should have played 16 games, or even 10.
 
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thunderkyss said:
I'm with you on Clark.

We should not go in to 2017 thinking Clark will be starting. He's a back up, was signed as a backup & will fill in nicely if needed. He never should have played 16 games, or even 10.
Click to expand...


I think you sign a new starter at RT cut Clark and draft a new swing.


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Last edited:
Scooter said:
I don't want to contradict CND, but offensive linemen aren't human. They calmly walk off the field with injuries that put most other positions in casts and carts. Duane is one of those ... he wasn't supposed to play in the first half of the season. When he did play he was supposed to be obviously impaired. Instead, he was our anchor. True, he was FAR from being himself, but 1/2 of the real Duane Brown is still a great player. We have plenty of issues and DB's successor is eventually on the list, but unless there is a new injury, I would guess Duane has 3-5 more years at a very high level.
Click to expand...

Brown probably has 3 high level (Same as this yr) yrs left. That's why I would extend him and save on the cap. I would also either sign a vet FA OT and drat a guy that can play OT and OG. Or draft an OT early and another in the 4-5th rd range. There's no OL depth, particularly at OT. Ricky should do everything possible to avoid what happened last yr.
 
steelbtexan said:
Brown probably has 3 high level (Same as this yr) yrs left. That's why I would extend him and save on the cap. I would also either sign a vet FA OT and drat a guy that can play OT and OG. Or draft an OT early and another in the 4-5th rd range. There's no OL depth, particularly at OT. Ricky should do everything possible to avoid what happened last yr.
Click to expand...
I am going along with CnnnD on Brown's health; he did not play against much during regular season and his injuries imo should not get better. We have him under contract at reasonable rate for a left tackle and we can cut him any time if he falters. I'm also concerned if he re-injures and his year become guaranteed. We need to restock our line.
 
badboy said:
I am going along with CnnnD on Brown's health; he did not play against much during regular season and his injuries imo should not get better. We have him under contract at reasonable rate for a left tackle and we can cut him any time if he falters. I'm also concerned if he re-injures and his year become guaranteed. We need to restock our line.
Click to expand...

For the record I would only give Brown a contract for the 2017 and 2018 seasons and coach up my 2017 drafted OT.
 
I am thinking we have room for either Bouye or Hopkins at the $ they'll both command.

Hopkins is more valuable to this team due to the strength of our CBs relative to our WRs.
 
Bring Lechler back at age 41 or FA Jeff Locke former Viking?

Cap hit 2016 $721,000 74 punts 3,155 net 2886 ave 42.6 net 39 out of bounds 3, 34 inside 20. 28 YOA. 2016 $ 721,000

Lechler: 72 punts 3423 net 2886, avg 47.5 net 40 out bounds 5, 30 inside 20. 41 YOA August 2016 cap $1.8 million
 
badboy said:
Bring Lechler back at age 41 or FA Jeff Locke former Viking?

Cap hit 2016 $721,000 74 punts 3,155 net 2886 ave 42.6 net 39 out of bounds 3, 34 inside 20. 28 YOA. 2016 $ 721,000

Lechler: 72 punts 3423 net 2886, avg 47.5 net 40 out bounds 5, 30 inside 20. 41 YOA August 2016 cap $1.8 million
Click to expand...

If Lechler wants to play another year, you sign him. Wouldn't hurt to bring competition into camp
 
TexansSeminole said:
Here's an interesting turn of events:



Link

Could the Texans be in play here for Albert? He was their starting left tackle this past year and made the pro-bowl from that position in 2015.

He has cap hits of $10.6mil in 2017 and $11.3mil in 2018, with $1.7mil signing bonus allocations in each year. not a cheap contract, but he's a good player and the contract isn't long. Maybe they extend him upon trading for him and start with a new contract? Maybe we move Brown to RT if we were to make this move? An interesting option.

The other question is, what would we give up? It sounds like there are potentially multiple teams bidding for him, so I assume it's have to be something of atleast some value. I know the Dolphins need a cornerback. Perhaps they want Joseph, but I don't see us doing that unless we are prepared to sign Bouye.

Thoughts on this possibility?
Click to expand...
I've been thinking about what we could get for Joseph in a trade draft pick wise. As soon as I heard about Albert I thought, wonder if they would do a Joseph for Albert trade.

I would still draft an OT fairly early. Preferably one that could come in and start inside for a year or two. That would go a long way in improving our OL.
 
After thinking about it, if one of the top OT's fall, I would be for drafting say Bolles in the 1st and trading back into the 1st for Lamp. You would solidify your OL for yrs. Then sign Cutler/Romo on a short term deal. This way your vet QB and drafted QB in next yrs draft would be well protected.

Spend the rest of your FA $$$$ bringing in a vet LB that can cover and if he gets cut Gilchrist. Then draft a fatty NT late in the draft like they did with Reader. They NT's from USC/Colorado look like 4th or later rd draft picks and they can play.
 
Brian Cushing's Future With the Houston Texans Hangs in the Balance Heading Into the 2017 Season
Patrick Starr
Yesterday at 9:18 AM

Brian Cushing's future with the Houston Texans could hang in the balance for the 2017 season.

Entering the 2017 off-season, the Houston Texans have to poke and prod their current roster to make sure that they are in the best spot for the upcoming season. There will be plenty of focus on the future of A.J. Bouye and the uncertainty at the quarterback position, but there will be some underlying issues with key veterans which require attention as well.

Longtime linebacker Brian Cushing someone whose name will come to the forefront as an opportunity for the roster to improve through potential cap savings. Cushing’s story is well known. He has grown as a man and player in Houston. He was rafted by the Texans in 2009 in the first round, named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, and in that same year, saw his first and only Pro-Bowl selection. In 2011, Cushing was selected to the All-Pro team which was the height of his play for the Texans.

There were also low times. First, the positive test late in 2009 which resulted in Cushing missing the first four games of the 2010 season. Then, in consecutive seasons, 2012-2013, his left leg took a battering on two separate occasions: first, a blindside block from Matt Slauson early in 2012, and the following season he broke his fibula, tearing his fibular collateral ligament in the process, after a cut block from Jamaal Charles.

The road has been long for Cushing and off-seasons dedicated to rehab have seen him the past three seasons performing as a shade of his former self.

In 2016, Cushing finally looked, at times, like he did prior to the injuries. An MCL injury did cause him to miss two games this season but those injuries were not enough to keep him from having a decent overall season. Cushing finished the season with 65 total tackles and took over as the Texans all-time leading tackler with 648 total tackles.

Which now leads to this upcoming off-season. What is next for Cushing?

2017 marks the first time that there are potential cap savings with Cushing’s contract — if the Texans decided to move on from him. With a cap number at $9.3 million, Cushing will enter the upcoming season as the 4th highest cap hit for the franchise this upcoming season.

Looking at Cushing closer, from a football standpoint, he has turned into a two-down linebacker because of the injuries and limitations in space against faster running backs. Late in the season, Cushing relinquished his 3-down linebacker role to Benardrick McKinney and was spot-filled with Max Bullough in certain defenisve situations.

With limited snaps, Cushing’s potential cap hit of $9.3 million is high for what he is being asked to do on the field.

TexansCap.com breaks down Cushing’s contract.

Brian Cushing’s contract runs through the 2019 season. Cushing is due a $5.5 million dollar salary in 2017, along with $1.25 million in roster bonuses. Cushing’s 2017 cap charge is $9.547 million. Releasing Cushing will provide a net cap savings of $5.55 million while leaving $3.997 million in dead money and saving the team $6.75 million in cash spending.

The Texans could clear some cap room if needed, $5.55 million, if needed for other possible roster moves.

If the Texans do move on from Cushing, they would have to fill two linebacker roles to fill in behind McKinney. That could be an issue with a cap situation that might be allocated to other areas.

Cushing, if he wanted to, could take a pay cut to line up with what he is being asked to do on the field. That number would be drastically less than what he is making now and that would leave the Texans less work on the roster to fill more holes.

Either way, Cushing’s contract will be a focus of the Texans on what exactly what to do with him for the future. Injuries and limited work on the field could be signs of the direction that the Texans might go, but Cushing is considered one of the team leaders and the “heart and soul” of the defense.

The Texans are not forced to make a move with Cushing but if another opportunity arises to sign a player or two, his current contract will come into focus quickly for a decision to be made.
 
CloakNNNdagger said:
Brian Cushing's Future With the Houston Texans Hangs in the Balance Heading Into the 2017 Season
Patrick Starr
Yesterday at 9:18 AM

Brian Cushing's future with the Houston Texans could hang in the balance for the 2017 season.

Entering the 2017 off-season, the Houston Texans have to poke and prod their current roster to make sure that they are in the best spot for the upcoming season. There will be plenty of focus on the future of A.J. Bouye and the uncertainty at the quarterback position, but there will be some underlying issues with key veterans which require attention as well.

Longtime linebacker Brian Cushing someone whose name will come to the forefront as an opportunity for the roster to improve through potential cap savings. Cushing’s story is well known. He has grown as a man and player in Houston. He was rafted by the Texans in 2009 in the first round, named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, and in that same year, saw his first and only Pro-Bowl selection. In 2011, Cushing was selected to the All-Pro team which was the height of his play for the Texans.

There were also low times. First, the positive test late in 2009 which resulted in Cushing missing the first four games of the 2010 season. Then, in consecutive seasons, 2012-2013, his left leg took a battering on two separate occasions: first, a blindside block from Matt Slauson early in 2012, and the following season he broke his fibula, tearing his fibular collateral ligament in the process, after a cut block from Jamaal Charles.

The road has been long for Cushing and off-seasons dedicated to rehab have seen him the past three seasons performing as a shade of his former self.

In 2016, Cushing finally looked, at times, like he did prior to the injuries. An MCL injury did cause him to miss two games this season but those injuries were not enough to keep him from having a decent overall season. Cushing finished the season with 65 total tackles and took over as the Texans all-time leading tackler with 648 total tackles.

Which now leads to this upcoming off-season. What is next for Cushing?

2017 marks the first time that there are potential cap savings with Cushing’s contract — if the Texans decided to move on from him. With a cap number at $9.3 million, Cushing will enter the upcoming season as the 4th highest cap hit for the franchise this upcoming season.

Looking at Cushing closer, from a football standpoint, he has turned into a two-down linebacker because of the injuries and limitations in space against faster running backs. Late in the season, Cushing relinquished his 3-down linebacker role to Benardrick McKinney and was spot-filled with Max Bullough in certain defenisve situations.

With limited snaps, Cushing’s potential cap hit of $9.3 million is high for what he is being asked to do on the field.

TexansCap.com breaks down Cushing’s contract.

Brian Cushing’s contract runs through the 2019 season. Cushing is due a $5.5 million dollar salary in 2017, along with $1.25 million in roster bonuses. Cushing’s 2017 cap charge is $9.547 million. Releasing Cushing will provide a net cap savings of $5.55 million while leaving $3.997 million in dead money and saving the team $6.75 million in cash spending.

The Texans could clear some cap room if needed, $5.55 million, if needed for other possible roster moves.

If the Texans do move on from Cushing, they would have to fill two linebacker roles to fill in behind McKinney. That could be an issue with a cap situation that might be allocated to other areas.

Cushing, if he wanted to, could take a pay cut to line up with what he is being asked to do on the field. That number would be drastically less than what he is making now and that would leave the Texans less work on the roster to fill more holes.

Either way, Cushing’s contract will be a focus of the Texans on what exactly what to do with him for the future. Injuries and limited work on the field could be signs of the direction that the Texans might go, but Cushing is considered one of the team leaders and the “heart and soul” of the defense.

The Texans are not forced to make a move with Cushing but if another opportunity arises to sign a player or two, his current contract will come into focus quickly for a decision to be made.
Click to expand...


This article really makes the case for cutting him if he is unwilling to take a pay cut. Money is better spent other places and inside linebackers are one of the lesser expensive positions to pursue especially for a 2 down guy.


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