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BADBOY's 2018 TEXANS offseason

badboy

Hall of Fame
Thoughts and comments on free agency, draft, possible trades, etc. Hope you offer input.


My board for our 2018 draft third and fourth round only for now.

Round three picks #68 and #80 (Seattle Duane Brown trade) and comp pick #97.

Left tackle Kolton Miller UCLA true 6'7" 310+ * I'm leaning away from players with significant injury histories but his 2017 encourages me. He ended '15 and '16 with injury as RT (only played 5 in 2016) 2017 started LT blocking for project high first round QB Josh Rosen.

The Bruins' blocker flashes outstanding balance for his size when moving backward and forward -- in pass protection and in the run game -- and is a through-the-whistle player who often overpowers defenders.

At 6-8 and 310 pounds with seemingly long arms, he has elite measureables.

Per Pro Football Focus, Miller allowed just 15 quarterback pressures (two sacks, eight hits, five hurries) on 544 pass-block snaps in 2017, which was good for the site's 10th-best Pass-Block Efficiency score among 121 qualifying offensive tackles. In a pass-happy NFL, Miller's pass-blocking prowess will likely be the main reason he's picked in the first round.
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft...well-rounded-franchise-left-tackle-skill-set/

I like Davenport @LT but Miller there if D. not ready or Miller starts day 1 RT. He's my #68 first choice.
 
board continues:

LG Braden Smith Auburn my pick at #80. Dude just doesn't allow opponents past him. I'm hoping we get Andrew Norwell in FA and playing Smith with him locks down guard for both sides for years. 6'6" 300+

Safety Deshon Elliott U. Tx 6'2" 210 Rockwell,Tx 63 Ts, 50 solo, 8.5 TFL, 1.5 sk, 9 PBUs, 6 INT's (2 for TDs) 3 FF and rated by PFF at 86.2 I like him better than Alabama's Fitzpatrick who can play corner.

LT Brian O'Neill Pittsburgh 6'5 305+ RT to LT in 2017 & zero sacks in 366 passing snaps. He did have shoulder injury April 2017 but missed no time in regular season. If we get Miller, O'Neill is my #97 and they lock up OTs for years with Davenport.

CB Mike Hughes UCF 5'10+ 185 and should be sub 4.5 forty. 13 games 2017: 11 PBUs, 1 FF, 4 INTs (one TD). PFF ranks him 88.3. KR: 20/635 @ 31.75 & two TDs. PR: 14/233 yds @ 16.64 & 1 TDs. Hard to pass him by but I hope we get two corner starters in free agency. Deep position and I do select CB later rounds. Natural cover corner with good feet and hips.

SS Quin Blanding 6'1" 215 Virginia 137 tackles, 3.5 TFL, 4 INTs with one TD, 2 PBUs, 1 QB hurry

WR Anthony Miller 5'11" Memphis this guy reminds of Hopkins with highlight receptions all season; he was only one of QB Riley Ferguson's targets. 2017 stats 96 catches for 1462 @ 15.23 & 18 TDs.

ILB/OLB Josie Jewell 6'1" + 236 lb hard to go this position with LB Cunningham and McKinney starting but I cut Cush. Cole also impacts this choice. 136 Ts, 69 solo, 13.5 TFL, 4.5 sacks, 3 QBs, 1 FF, 11 PBUs
 
Board continues with candidates for round three:

CB Jordan Wyatt 6'0 195 SMU JR. 49 Ts, 40 solo, 4.5 TFL, 1 sk, 3 FF, 8 PBU

ILB Michael Kiser 6'1+ 240 Virginia 145 Ts, 9.5 TFL, 5 sacks, 2 QBs, 4 PBU

CB Nick Nelson 5'11 208 Wisconsin 35 Ts 1 for loss, 2 QBs, 21 PBU

CB Kameron Kelly 6'1+ 200 San Diego ST. from Murphy, TX 68 Ts, 5 TFL, 1 QB, 2 FF, 8 PBUs
 
Find a way to get both O'Neil and Smith in the 2nd/3rd rd, then sign Norwell/Butler in FA and this team would give Watson the type of protection he needs.

If you could get Holton Hill or Kelly in the 3rd comp or 4th Butler and add then you would go along way to solving the secondary sucking issues.

Another guy who got suspended for 2 games (Undisclosed) is NC. St. OT Will Richardson would be a great 6th rd pick. Richardson lead a potent Wolfpack offense this last season.

BTW, I love Kelly.
 
I don't see a TE in your draft! I think the Texans will pick a TE to replace Fiedorowicz with one of their 3rd rounders or maybe their 4th rounder. With Fiedo's and Griffin's injuries (concussions) I can't see the Texans not getting at least one TE in the draft and maybe one in FA. JMO.
 
Find a way to get both O'Neil and Smith in the 2nd/3rd rd, then sign Norwell/Butler in FA and this team would give Watson the type of protection he needs.

If you could get Holton Hill or Kelly in the 3rd comp or 4th Butler and add then you would go along way to solving the secondary sucking issues.

Another guy who got suspended for 2 games (Undisclosed) is NC. St. OT Will Richardson would be a great 6th rd pick. Richardson lead a potent Wolfpack offense this last season.

BTW, I love Kelly.
Holton Hill has failed 3 drug screens. Doubt Texans risk it. Skills, size & stats there. PFF rates him 87.7 so maybe...
 
I don't see a TE in your draft! I think the Texans will pick a TE to replace Fiedorowicz with one of their 3rd rounders or maybe their 4th rounder. With Fiedo's and Griffin's injuries (concussions) I can't see the Texans not getting at least one TE in the draft and maybe one in FA. JMO.
Understand, but I think Fiedo will play. Anderson more snaps. TE only in FA and/or UFA.
 
Holton Hill has failed 3 drug screens. Doubt Texans risk it. Skills, size & stats there. PFF rates him 87.7 so maybe...

1st rd skills, these are the types of chances that Gaine will have to take if he wants to upgrade the roster without 1st or 2nd rd picks.

After talking with his parents, they said they've worked with him. (Whatever that means) I would take a chance on Holton. I really liked his parents, really good and classy people. Holton was a honor roll student in high school.
 
1st rd skills, these are the types of chances that Gaine will have to take if he wants to upgrade the roster without 1st or 2nd rd picks.

After talking with his parents, they said they've worked with him. (Whatever that means) I would take a chance on Holton. I really liked his parents, really good and classy people. Holton was a honor roll student in high school.
I agree but not sure we can risk a third on anyone this draft. We need solid selections
 
I agree but not sure we can risk a third on anyone this draft. We need solid selections

Well, they could play it safe and draft another Nix/Miller/Strong/Brennan Williams.

God this team has sucked in the 3rd/4th rd. At what point do you start taking chances on guys like Hill?
 
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Well, they could play it safe and draft another Nix/Miller/Strong/Brennan Williams.

God this team has sucked in the 3rd/4th rd. At what point do you start taking chances on guys like Hill?
I agree but at point each taken I was only upset with Braxton Miller. Each had concerns but Nix, Strong and Williams seemed to fill a huge need. None was drug related.
 
I agree but at point each taken I was only upset with Braxton Miller. Each had concerns but Nix, Strong and Williams seemed to fill a huge need. None was drug related.

Strong?

Maybe in the 3rd rd some should be drug related, since the non drug related guys have all sucked.

BTW, Justin Houston failed a drug test at the combine and has never had another problem. The misconception is all pot smokers = Josh Gordon. There are many more pot smokers like Justin Houston/Warren Sapp/Randy Moss than there are of Gordon/Martavious Bryant/Randy Gregory's in the NFL.

BTW, if I was Jerrah I would sign Bryant in a heartbeat.
 
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Board for round four #100.

LT Michael Deiter (move to RT or RG) 6'5" 325 needs work & may return to Wisconsin.

Safety Godwin Igwebuike 6' 212 Northwestern this guy intrigues me and I could see him going late first or high second but few have him higher than round four. Hard to ignore him if here as we need help. College very consistent. 78 Ts, 1 TFL, 9 PBUs, 2 INT, 1 fumble return 45 yards, 1 QB, 1FF

LT Tyrell Crosby 6'5" 310 Oregon I like him but seems ranked from round two to round 5. If Miller and Oneill gone I would not be opposed to selecting him in third. Didn't play in 2016 due to foot but was very good in 2017. Difficult to confirm but considered excellent pass blocker allowing only 3 QB hurries total and no sacks. PFF rated him 99.2 pass and 84.3 run blocking. The hurries were in 296 passing snaps.

ILB Kendall Joseph 6' 225 Clemson 96 Ts, 5 TFL, 4 QBs. 2 FF, 1PBUs, 1 INT

OC Bradley Bozeman 6'5" 320 played 2016 & 2017 Alabama with accolades as center but I'd move him to guard.

Nickle corner/safety Kysir White 6'2" 216 West Virginia 94 Ts, 7.5 TFLs, 3 INTs, 1 sack, 4 PBUs, 4QBs, 2 FF
could replace K Jackson if he is moved to safety.
 
Strong?

Maybe in the 3rd rd some should be drug related, since the non drug related guys have all sucked.

BTW, Justin Houston failed a drug test at the combine and has never had another problem. The misconception is all pot smokers = Josh Gordon. There are many more pot smokers like Justin Houston/Warren Sapp/Randy Moss than there are of Gordon/Martavious Bryant/Randy Gregory's in the NFL.

BTW, if I was Jerrah I would sign Bryant in a heartbeat.
preaching to the choir about pot but three failed tests will cause Texans to hesitate. Again, pressure on O'Brien and Gaines to select well. We should and need to get three starters, if Houston is satisfied with Holton's interview, he could be one. Since I have Texans signing at least one corner in FA to start, I hesitate to use a third for CB. Arrion Springs is really good and could be had day three.
 
preaching to the choir about pot but three failed tests will cause Texans to hesitate. Again, pressure on O'Brien and Gaines to select well. We should and need to get three starters, if Houston is satisfied with Holton's interview, he could be one. Since I have Texans signing at least one corner in FA to start, I hesitate to use a third for CB. Arrion Springs is really good and could be had day three.

If they move KJax to S they are going to need 2 CB's. I've got a #1 CB in FA and drafting atleast 1 in the 3rd to compete with KJo who was flat out awful.

Springs can cover somewhat, but reminds me of Terrance Mitchell.
 
If they move KJax to S they are going to need 2 CB's. I've got a #1 CB in FA and drafting atleast 1 in the 3rd to compete with KJo who was flat out awful.

Springs can cover somewhat, but reminds me of Terrance Mitchell.
Mitchell in 15 games 53 tackles, 18 passes broken up, 4 INTs ...I'd take that from Springs. I'd sign Joseph to move to safety and leave KJ where he is hoping the return of already identified defensive front seven improves all DBs. In fact KJ's 2017 was much better than season before including playing all 16 games. Here's my thinking, '18 is his last contract year and he turns 30 this April. We should be able to extend him as we did Joseph for reasonable costs or if beneficial allow him to walk in free agency and get a significant comp. I agree we should get two CB starters if possible in FA; if Johnson starts well and seems to have no residuals from the MCL in knee and the 2017 concussion the 5th year option should be reasonable to pay. I would have a detailed physical in late April & pick up KJohnson's 5th year option for 2019 on May 2nd. His 2018 cap of $3 m is reasonable if healthy & no savings if cut.
 
Mitchell in 15 games 53 tackles, 18 passes broken up, 4 INTs ...I'd take that from Springs. I'd sign Joseph to move to safety and leave KJ where he is hoping the return of already identified defensive front seven improves all DBs. In fact KJ's 2017 was much better than season before including playing all 16 games. Here's my thinking, '18 is his last contract year and he turns 30 this April. We should be able to extend him as we did Joseph for reasonable costs or if beneficial allow him to walk in free agency and get a significant comp. I agree we should get two CB starters if possible in FA; if Johnson starts well and seems to have no residuals from the MCL in knee and the 2017 concussion the 5th year option should be reasonable to pay. I would have a detailed physical in late April & pick up KJohnson's 5th year option for 2019 on May 2nd. His 2018 cap of $3 m is reasonable if healthy & no savings if cut.

JoJo is to small to move to S.

I want KJax to move to S because he plays well facing the QB and not so well in bump and run. Plus he's a sure tackler.

You need to read CnD's posts about KJO's foot/ankle/knee injuries all on the same leg, before you think about giving KJo the 5th yr option.
 
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JoJo is to small to move to S.

I want KJax to move to S because he plays well facing the QB and not so well in bump and run. Plus he's a sure tackler.

You need to read CnD's posts about KJO's foot/ankle/knee injuries all on the same leg, before you think about giving KJo the 5th yr option.
very familiar with Doc's info and why I said detailed physical in May. The option is guaranteed for injury which I do agree is likely if not probable. If we don't option him and he has another 2015 statistics and we lose him in FA the Bouye Birds will be back. IF he has poor 2018, cut him before '19 and season is guaranteed. Don't see how we can lose this.
 
Fourth round board continued:

OLB Fred Warner 6'4" 230 BYU I have him here but may lower closer to draft. 87 Ts, 9 TFLs, 1 sack, 1 INT, 1 FF and 5 PBUs. Senior Bowl could help him.

OLB David Bellamy 6'5" 240 Georgia-- man he whiffed LT McGlinchly to secure win vs Notre Dame. 34 Ts, 7.5 TFLs, 5 sacks, 2 FF and only 3 passes knocked down. At his height I was hoping for more of those.

CB Adonis Alexander 6'3 193 Virgina Tech I think his future in NFL lies at safety but he has some press skills and decent stats at corner; if he burns in the forty he will probably go round three. I have another safety at #100 but if Alexander fools me and falls round 6 I'd probably have to take him. He could be another Hal.

CB Danny Johnson 5'9" 185 (I think he is closer to 5'8") Southern U. but this kid is a baller. 55 Ts, 12 PBUs, 3 INTs with two return for TDs. He had 3 catches at WR and for a TD. I think he and Watson could hook up a few times. He is built for nickle if KJ moves to safety & loves to hit. I could see some plays at RB and he runs in 4.35- 4.4 range. PR: 13 for 222 yds and 1 TD KR: 15 for 326 @ 22.
 
JJo is 5'11" 185 lbs & Kareem Jackson is 5'10" 185 lbs.

But I would move KJack 1st.

KJax to FS is the right move. I believe he's faster and much more physical when it comes to laying a hit. I've felt for a long time that KJax as a center fielder allows him to use those attributes and keep the game in front of him. He just breaks down when he does the chasing.
 
BTW, Justin Houston failed a drug test at the combine and has never had another problem. The misconception is all pot smokers = Josh Gordon. There are many more pot smokers like Justin Houston/Warren Sapp/Randy Moss than there are of Gordon/Martavious Bryant/Randy Gregory's in the NFL.

BTW, if I was Jerrah I would sign Bryant in a heartbeat.

Just for the record, Josh Gordon had problems bigger than pot. I'll gladly take an mj user over the things he was on. I agree with the rest of your post; just wouldn't label Gordon's problems as pot related.

http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2017/10/browns_josh_gordon_opens_up_ab.html

"I've used alcohol on many, many occasions, Xanax on many occasions, cocaine several occasions, marijuana most of my life, codeine, cough syrup, methazine is very prevalent where I'm from,'' Gordon admit. "It's what I grew up using.''
 
It was reported that during Shriner game practice week Safety Godwin Igwebuike Northwestern while on sidelines was calling out schemes and what to look for to co-players on field. He was correct on all; seems to have 'it' between his ears as well as skills.
 
24 players reportedly withdraw from:

Players not participating in Senior Bowl: Rashaan Evans Billy Price Mason Rudolph Anthony Miller Sony Michel Nick Chubb Maurice Hurst Courtland Sutton Skai Moore Kamrin Moore Martinas Rankin Frank Ragnow Shaun Dion Hamilton Derrick Nnadi Duke Ejiofor Harold Landry Davin Bellamy Anthony Averett Darren Carrington Jamarco Jones Braden Smith Bradley Chubb Lorenzo Carter Josey Jewell
per jon Ledyard @LedyardNFLDraft
 
It was reported that during Shriner game practice week Safety Godwin Igwebuike Northwestern while on sidelines was calling out schemes and what to look for to co-players on field. He was correct on all; seems to have 'it' between his ears as well as skills.

I really like this guy, he reminds me of Quin, if He's there in the late 3rd/4th Gaine should pick him. He's really good.
 
PFF has recently ranked both OTs Crosby and Kolton Miller late first rounders. Not really surprising but I was hoping...maybe O'Neill? Of the three, I think he would be best at right tackle but still play left; then Crosby and I see Miller as basically LT. He has limited game experience due to injuries 2015 & 2016 before playing all 2017. I don't care much for remaining guys except maybe Martinas Rankins who some reported as weak and easy to move around. He has been compared to Antonio Garcia a guy I wanted last draft. Strength is something all players need entering NFL and can usually attain.
 
West Georgia OT Desmond Harrison will not participate due to knee injury, but will weigh in. Really wanted to see this guy.
 
West Georgia OT Desmond Harrison will not participate due to knee injury, but will weigh in. Really wanted to see this guy.

He will be there at the Comp pick the 3rd rd, (End)

draftniks here do you pick him?
 
PFF has recently ranked both OTs Crosby and Kolton Miller late first rounders. Not really surprising but I was hoping...maybe O'Neill? Of the three, I think he would be best at right tackle but still play left; then Crosby and I see Miller as basically LT. He has limited game experience due to injuries 2015 & 2016 before playing all 2017. I don't care much for remaining guys except maybe Martinas Rankins who some reported as weak and easy to move around. He has been compared to Antonio Garcia a guy I wanted last draft. Strength is something all players need entering NFL and can usually attain.

I like Rankins alot.

Spend the 3 yrs 23 Mil on Glenn, draft a guy like Rankins (who I really like) the rest of FA and the draft, I can guarantee you that the the OL will be improved like the Vikings were this yr. Plus Davenport gets another yr to develop.
 
He will be there at the Comp pick the 3rd rd, (End)

draftniks here do you pick him?
Harrison was 6'6" 279 lbs at the Senior Bowl weigh-in. Don't know if his knee will allow him to take part in drills at the combine. Looks more like a 6th-7th rounder at this point, considering the weight and injury.
 
Harrison was 6'6" 279 lbs at the Senior Bowl weigh-in. Don't know if his knee will allow him to take part in drills at the combine. Looks more like a 6th-7th rounder at this point, considering the weight and injury.

I would take him with a 6th.

Very talented guy.
 
I like Rankins alot.

Spend the 3 yrs 23 Mil on Glenn, draft a guy like Rankins (who I really like) the rest of FA and the draft, I can guarantee you that the the OL will be improved like the Vikings were this yr. Plus Davenport gets another yr to develop.
His M.St. bio says he can play all positions & held that spot during spring due to others injuries so that is a plus though minimal experience. I saw him some but did not focus on him. Do you think he can pick up right tackle enough to start? That is my thoughts on O'Neill and Crosby, both would be good sooner at RT but Miller is IMO basically a left tackle like Davenport. I'd really like to get two of those guys plus Braden Smith in our third round. Grabbing a safety in fourth would really help this roster even if we look at Oline in early rounds of 2019 Texans should have decent starters long term and quality depth. Interested in how Quess (2018 final contract year) and Slade (signed thru '19) handle OG this year; if we get Braden Smith and Andre Norwell (as FA) the former two could be depth. Man so much is just not clear and probably will not be by draft.

Edit: Rankins is very intelligent --on Dean's list or some such award IIRC.
 
His M.St. bio says he can play all positions & held that spot during spring due to others injuries so that is a plus though minimal experience. I saw him some but did not focus on him. Do you think he can pick up right tackle enough to start? That is my thoughts on O'Neill and Crosby, both would be good sooner at RT but Miller is IMO basically a left tackle like Davenport. I'd really like to get two of those guys plus Braden Smith in our third round. Grabbing a safety in fourth would really help this roster even if we look at Oline in early rounds of 2019 Texans should have decent starters long term and quality depth. Interested in how Quess (2018 final contract year) and Slade (signed thru '19) handle OG this year; if we get Braden Smith and Andre Norwell (as FA) the former two could be depth. Man so much is just not clear and probably will not be by draft.

Edit: Rankins is very intelligent --on Dean's list or some such award IIRC.

Rankins best position is RT. Imho

I've got Crosby as a LT starter early in his career. O'Neil is more of a developmental LT.

A guy who is going to be a steal is Noteboom, that is a big strong guy who takes great angles and can play anywhere on the OL.

I'm really looking forward to seeing him this week. I've got a feeling he won't be a sleeper after this week.

You could do a lot worse than Noteboom, Rankins, Smith in the 3rd.
 
Usually I would not consider a third round selection as huge risk but as I've mentioned when discussing the Texans corner, as we know this draft is not usual. We cannot miss or IMO even get average player or not consider something. Noteboom plays for a a known football program yet is still a virtual unknown; still I like that TCU avg'd almost 50 points a game first three games last season, reminds me of Watson's offense. Great Blue North ranks Noteboom #12. O'Neill #3, Rankin #4, Miller #6 and Crosby #7. I would think seven tackles would be drafted by #68. I wish I knew more about Brandon Parker who prior to 2017 ('14'15 &'16) had no sacks allowed with only 4 penalties. 107.5 wingspan 225x20 (should increase if he trains for pro day) with allegedly good feet, speed and motor. 6'7" 310 ish
 
Following is just an example to get numbers into folks mind. Feel free to correct or disagree but say why. This example does not mean I think Texans will go after any or these positions; none are restricted.

Using $59 million for 2018 cap space:

1] RG Andrew Norwell October 25 1991 6'7" 325 (contract to compare Russell Okung http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/los-angeles-chargers/russell-okung-6515/)

6 years $60 million: $32 m guaranteed-$12 signing+ 8 1st season base+12 2nd season base. Cap cost 8 +2 prorated= $10 million

2] LT Nate Solder March 24 1988 6'7" 320 6 years $72 million: $32 guaranteed- $20 m signing +6 1st season + 6 2nd season. Cap cost $6 m +$3.3 prorated= $9.3

3] RT Cameron Fleming September 3,1992 6 years $60 m: $32 m guaranteed- $12m signing + 8 1st season + $12 m 2nd season. Cap cost 8 base + 2 prorated= $10

4] CB E J Gaines Feb 23, 1992 break down same as #1 & #3. Cap costs $10 m
5] CB Kyle Fuller Feb 16, 1992 break down same as #1 & #3 Cap costs $ 10 m
6] Safety Tre Boston June 25, 1992 break down same #1 & 3 Cap costs $ 10 m
Total free agency cap cost above $59.3 million

Additional moves to increase cap space if desired:

Brian Cushing $7.64 m PFF rating 52
Kareem Jackson $6.75 PFF rating 52.2
Jeff Allen $4.875 PFF rating 38.4
Brandon Dunn $ .8 PFF rating 71.5
Chad Slade $ .5 PFF rating 59.3
Quessenberry $ .5 PFF rating NA
K. Drummond $ .6 PFF rating NA


Jadeveon Clowney 2018 base for his 5th year option is also his cap hit. Bonus $13.9 gives him cash +allows a much smaller base & cap hit. Example only: $2 m base plus prorate over his new contract.
{I read recently Jeff Risdon Texanswire suggests six year $20 million per season $70 m guarantee similar to Vonn Miller. That's difficult for me.} after reworking 2018 and extending say 6 years prorate could be $2 m + whatever base..say $2 m= $4 million or cap savings 2018 of $10 million.
 
Following is just an example to get numbers into folks mind. Feel free to correct or disagree but say why. This example does not mean I think Texans will go after any or these positions; none are restricted.

Using $59 million for 2018 cap space:

1] RG Andrew Norwell October 25 1991 6'7" 325 (contract to compare Russell Okung http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/los-angeles-chargers/russell-okung-6515/)

6 years $60 million: $32 m guaranteed-$12 signing+ 8 1st season base+12 2nd season base. Cap cost 8 +2 prorated= $10 million

2] LT Nate Solder March 24 1988 6'7" 320 6 years $72 million: $32 guaranteed- $20 m signing +6 1st season + 6 2nd season. Cap cost $6 m +$3.3 prorated= $9.3

3] RT Cameron Fleming September 3,1992 6 years $60 m: $32 m guaranteed- $12m signing + 8 1st season + $12 m 2nd season. Cap cost 8 base + 2 prorated= $10

4] CB E J Gaines Feb 23, 1992 break down same as #1 & #3. Cap costs $10 m
5] CB Kyle Fuller Feb 16, 1992 break down same as #1 & #3 Cap costs $ 10 m
6] Safety Tre Boston June 25, 1992 break down same #1 & 3 Cap costs $ 10 m
Total free agency cap cost above $59.3 million

Additional moves to increase cap space if desired:

Brian Cushing $7.64 m PFF rating 52
Kareem Jackson $6.75 PFF rating 52.2
Jeff Allen $4.875 PFF rating 38.4
Brandon Dunn $ .8 PFF rating 71.5
Chad Slade $ .5 PFF rating 59.3
Quessenberry $ .5 PFF rating NA
K. Drummond $ .6 PFF rating NA


Jadeveon Clowney 2018 base for his 5th year option is also his cap hit. Bonus $13.9 gives him cash +allows a much smaller base & cap hit. Example only: $2 m base plus prorate over his new contract.
{I read recently Jeff Risdon Texanswire suggests six year $20 million per season $70 m guarantee similar to Vonn Miller. That's difficult for me.} after reworking 2018 and extending say 6 years prorate could be $2 m + whatever base..say $2 m= $4 million or cap savings 2018 of $10 million.

This is such an ambitious plan and I hate to be a "Debbie Downer" but there is zero chance the Texans could sign all 3 of those O-linemen and Clowney too! The best I think you could hope for would be to have a chance at signing one of those O-linemen, and possibly one of those DB's, and then sign :clown: to his megadeal. Those 3 O-linemen you picked are the cream of the FA crop this year and all of them are still young, and we may never get to see any of them hit the market at all. My guess is Norwell will resign with Carolina and continue to protect Cam. I think the Pats will resign either Fleming or Solder but probably won't have the money to do both although I can't say anything about their cap space because I haven't followed what's going on with them. The other thing we have to realize here is every team will be after these guys if they do make it to FA and some will probably have higher cap space than the Texans and willing to pay top dollar to get one of them. Are the Texans (Gaine) willing to get into a bidding war for one of them?
 
keep in mind this was just an example but also Clowney new deal can begin in 2019 & have no impact on 2018. also cashing his base for '18 can give up to $10 m plus in increased cap. The 2018 NFL cap is guesstimated $178 m. The roll over was $11,356,320 which hopefully we spend most of. The 2019 should go up significantly if not as much due to loss of NFL income to be shared with players. Clowney's first year could begin then.

Many NFL teams needing corners, safeties and Oline will have first and second rounds to address those needs. Texans will have competition but time to step up.

Edit: Pats have about $20 m cap space.
 
Charlie Campbell @ walterfootball.com = 3.68 Safety DeShon Elliott 3.80 OT Brian O'Niell with OT Martinas Rankin and OG Braden Smith possibly in range of our comp #97. In range of our 4.100 possibly are: OT Crosby and WR Anthony Miller & safety Igwebuike.

I'd love that scenario.
 
Jeff Allen is a conundrum to me..28 and good size for guard. Played out of position and concussions in 2016 and 2017 plus an ankle injury costing him games two and three last season. He probably came back too soon. If he could lock down LG that would be huge. IMO he has not played up to his contract but health could have limited all season plus he probably had to help those on either side of which ever spot he was thrown into including LT. Solder, Allen, Martin, Norwell and a draft pick (if not Cameron Fleming) could be interesting.
 
keep in mind this was just an example but also Clowney new deal can begin in 2019 & have no impact on 2018. also cashing his base for '18 can give up to $10 m plus in increased cap. The 2018 NFL cap is guesstimated $178 m. The roll over was $11,356,320 which hopefully we spend most of. The 2019 should go up significantly if not as much due to loss of NFL income to be shared with players. Clowney's first year could begin then.

Many NFL teams needing corners, safeties and Oline will have first and second rounds to address those needs. Texans will have competition but time to step up.

Edit: Pats have about $20 m cap space.
Correction: PATRIOTs 2018 cap just under $14 million per over the cap.
 
Super Bowl gave me first extensive look at Nate Solder, Patriots left tackle; good news is he looked really good, bad news he looked really good. He is going to want atmospheric contract and I say no to that. If he wants to block for Watson and WRs Hopkins & Fuller on young team with top 5 (please Lord) defense, we can pay him beaucoup bucks. He is not the blubber belly lineman often seen in NFL. He did have some 'uh oh' plays but I don't think his opponent touched QB. Solder turns 30 March 24th. 5/6 year contract wouldn't necessarily put him over hill at 35-36 & deal could leave last 2 years with little dead money. If it comes down to Solder or RG Norwell..the latter is my choice...I think.
 
Yeah, the Texans can't sign Solder and Norwell in the same season. OL is a massive issue but that would be a lot of money. Patriots and Panthers have some cap issues (I believe), so I'm not sure these are players they can retain without the loss of several others.

Solder's son has cancer and there is talk that he might consider retirement to spend more time with his family. If he does have plans to play next season, Houston could be a great landing spot for the Solder family b/c of Texas Childeren's Hospital (My son is leaving the military and trying to land with TCH in August). Also worth mentioning, as much as I liked Solder's play does he really fit O'Brien's scheme or like Watson, would the Texans be willing to adjust their schemes to better fit the talent they have or obtain?

Norwell would be my primary focus. I think he can play both schemes and be effective.

Again, this isn't going to be fixed overnight but lets just see the team start laying a smart foundation with some kind of common goal in mind. Also, got to keep this cap situation in check since it's going to be just as important next season as it is this season.
 
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1st from an old Marine tell your son thanks for his service. Why can't Solder and Norwell be signed? Contracts can be adjusted greatly. Player focuses on signing bonus as cash in hand but that can be spread over contract. Next is guaranteed $ as was Hopkins and often is 1-3 years. Player & agent want total amount high for bragging. We can sign both and Some others also.
 
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