New Texans (FA/Trade)

[Roy P]

Taking a cursory look at the roster and around the league I wanted to discuss some needs and potential players to fill them. I am not sure how much weight I put into Ryan Mallet or any of the draft prospects. So, once again I'm advocating the trade with the Giants in order to get Ryan Nassib. He is stuck behind Eli Manning and perhaps the Giants would be willing to deal. Next, the NT position is questionable with Louis Nix, so I would see what Dan William's price tag would be. In addition, I am really looking for a ILB to play on third down and would suggest Sean Weatherspoon. We are in the market for a WR even if we draft one with the departure of Andre, so Brian Hartline makes sense to me.

[Roy P]

CB Brandon Flowers, S Rahim Moore, TE Jordan Cameron and G Justin Blaylock would be great complimentary players.

[popanot]

Not sure Nassib brings anything a rookie or Savage couldn't bring. I think they'd have a hard time trading for a guy that has zero NFL game tape.

Speaking of trades, look on MFL. I sent you couple offers. LOL. :)

[Roy P]

Nassib has a couple of years in the NFL. He appeared to have better pocket presence at Syracuse than anything these college prospects have shown me. He has displayed better accuracy and decision making skills (during preseason games) than either Mallet or Savage, in my opinion. Having zero NFL regular season snaps, makes him attainable, in my estimation.

[sinnister]

I have questions about Mallett, but I doubt that Nassib would fair any better next year. I think we will resign Mallett and target another guy in the draft....someone like Petty.

[Roy P]

We are in the market for a WR even if we draft one with the departure of Andre, so Brian Hartline makes sense to me.

- Just saw a report that the Texans had a meeting with Hartline today :)

[Nconroe]

Hartline is 6ft2in, 200 lbs will be 29 this next season, only had 39 receptions this past year while making about 6 mil.

Doesn't sound like no. 1 WR? Maybe plenty other WR a couple years younger available as FA?

[nunusguy]

Randall Cobb would be great on the team, but suspect the competition for him will be heavy and expensive.

[Keith]

Hartline is a possession receiver, which is basically what Andre was in 2014. Compare Hartline's 2013 to Andre's 2014... fairly similar.

Texans have a #1 WR already... used a first round pick on him even. His name is DeAndre Hopkins. This offense, especially with an inexperienced QB, doesn't need another wide. It needs a better TE and/or an actual slot, neither of which would cost a first round pick necessarily.

Randall Cobb would be an awesome add, but how much of the team's salary cap do we want tied up in WR? Pedestrian, usable WRs in the mold of Hartline (and, ahem, Posey) are always available to supplement guys like Hopkins.

[Roy P]

If not Hartline, then I would like Harry Douglas or Eddie Royal. With the QB situation unanswered, attracting Free Agents might be more difficult and more expensive than for other teams with an established QB.

As for the TE position, is there anything out there who could come close to filling the Gronkowski role in this Offense? Clive Walford is the only draft prospect who intrigues me.

[WMH]

@AdamSchefter: Texans reached a 5-year agreement with Derek Newton, per league source.

@taniaganguli: Newton's contract will include $10 million in guarantees and around $13 million in the first two years of the 5 year deal. #Texans

@PatDStat: Not a bad deal of Newton. 5 years for a little above $25 million. #Texans

@RapSheet: Big numbers for #Texans OT Derek Newton: 5 years at $26.5M with $10M guaranteed. $13.75M in first 2 years and $17M in first 3 years

[WMH]

@McClain_on_NFL: Texans making run at WR Randall Cobb and Jeremy Mackin to replace Andre Johnson. Expect them 2 target Torrey Smith, 2.

@McClain_on_NFL: Don't b surprised if Wilfork reunited with Crennel and O'Brien if price is right. He and Crennel are real close.

[Roy P]

I am not a big fan of Newton, but we can't expect to field a Fantasy football team with an All-Pro at every position. The contract seems reasonable. I am excited to hear we are persuing Maclin and Cobb, waiting to hear if we can sign either. I wanted to draft Wilfork in 2004, not sure how much he has left in the tank. His leadership and production should be better than we got when we signed Ed Reed.

[Roy P]

CB Kareem Jackson locked up for four years. So, that's reassuring. Hopefully, he continues to improve.

[WMH]

CB Kareem Jackson locked up for four years. So, that's reassuring. Hopefully, he continues to improve.

@PatDStat: Kareem Jackson getting $8.5 a season with $20 million guaranteed per @taniaganguli. #Texans

@RavensInsider: Kareem Jackson four-year, $34 million deal has $20.5M in first two years, $9M bonus, $4M roster bonus, $1M base 2015, $6.5M 2016, per source

[HPF Bob]

NFL Media reports the Texans are pursuing QB Brian Hoyer (Browns):





The Texans are eyeing former Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer as a top quarterback target in free agency, according to Jeff Darlington of NFL Media.

Hoyer played in 14 games for the Browns in 2014, throwing for 3,326 yards with 12 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He lost his starting position to Johnny Manziel in Week 15, but was forced back into action after Manziel suffered a season-ending injury. Hoyer, who has ties to his former New England coach and current coach of the Texans, Bill O'Brien.

Outside of the Texans, the Jets, Titans, Rams could all be looking to add a quarterback to the roster. Teams began talking to agents for players with expiring contracts starting at 12:00 p.m. ET on Saturday. However, no deals can be finalized until Tuesday, the first day of the new NFL calendar.

[Nconroe]

I'm hoping Texans can resign Brooks Reed. I think he was 12th in nfl in QB hits and QB hurries. Steady play and can play both inside and outside as well as special teams.

I'm glad Newton and Jackson resigned. Good players and help with consistency.

[WMH]

NFL Media reports the Texans are pursuing QB Brian Hoyer (Browns):

IMO, they're jacking with Mallett with this "leak."
Games people play this time of the year.

At least I hope so.....

I'd rather have the unknown with Mallett than the known with Hoyer.

[painekiller]

I'm hoping Texans can resign Brooks Reed. I think he was 12th in nfl in QB hits and QB hurries. Steady play and can play both inside and outside as well as special teams.

I'm glad Newton and Jackson resigned. Good players and help with consistency.

Guess you missed the reports on the radio yesterday from Reed's agent that the Texans do not appear to be trying to resign Reed. Agents said that Reed was likely done as a Texan.

Doesn't mean he doesn't sign here much later if he doesn't get the type offer he is expecting.

And I am glad with the two big signing's, now I wonder if the shoe drops on J-Joe. Either a pay cut or out right release.

Also when does the AJ release happen? The money could come in handy.

Lastly please get Mallett under contract so we can sign a FA WR, or TE of note.

[chuck]

As I've said, Newton was borderline great last year. He was a crucial re-sign. I have no idea what he'll be like as a veteran in the first year of a new contract. I suppose we'll see how much he likes football.

And I do hope the team signs Hartline. Not because he's good, of course. He sucks. But so Bob has an impetus to grouse about his favorite play. That never gets old, just like the left handed quarterback.

[HPF Bob]

The guy I want re-signed is Ryan Pickett. The defense was demonstrably better once he played the middle. I know he's old so he shouldn't break the bank.

As for Newton and Jackson, similar stories. They were shitty for a few years and were (statistically at least) above average last year. So, why the improvement? Better coaching? Better focus? Contract years? The Texans gambled that they will still play at their 2014 levels instead of their 2012-13 levels. When you look at the markets at these positions, it's hard to argue with re-signing them but I sure hope the difference was better coaching.

[Roy P]

And I do hope the team signs Hartline. Not because he's good, of course. He sucks. But so Bob has an impetus to grouse about his favorite play. That never gets old, just like the left handed quarterback.

Imagine if they draft Phillip Dorsett, that play might actually work. ;)

[WMH]

Also when does the AJ release happen? The money could come in handy.

IIRC, they don't have to be under the cap till Tuesday. They'll likely do it then.

Crazy activity today with teams signing their own. Sucks we didn't get a chance at Cobb. Can't blame him though. He's got another shot at a contract. Rodgers > Whatever We put out there.

[Arky]

......

As for Newton and Jackson, similar stories. They were shitty for a few years and were (statistically at least) above average last year. So, why the improvement? Better coaching? Better focus? Contract years? The Texans gambled that they will still play at their 2014 levels instead of their 2012-13 levels. When you look at the markets at these positions, it's hard to argue with re-signing them but I sure hope the difference was better coaching.

Whelp, looking back, IMO, KJ should have stayed in college for his final year but like a lot of young fellas, he couldn't resist the cash grab so he came out his junior year. In the NFL it seems, playing cornerback is one of the largest leaps (college --> NFL). Seen it many times: a young CB struggles only to eventually turn into a decent player. I remember during the height of his (KJ) struggles that Kubiak would answer the critics with a "yeah, but he's a tough kid" and that was needed during his rough early years. They put him a sink or swim situation and he looked bad all too often but eventually became a pretty good CB. It would have been a shame to let all that development/OJT hit the road....

Newton was somewhat similar: over his head early but received so much real game experience that he couldn't help but get better. He also played through injury quite often and I remember him limping at times, especially in 2013. Yet, the Texans kept trotting him out there..... I suppose because he was the best they had....

At any rate, I think you gotta call these two "core signings".....

[Roy P]

In the NFL it seems, playing cornerback is one of the largest leaps (college --> NFL). Seen it many times: a young CB struggles only to eventually turn into a decent player. I remember during the height of his (KJ) struggles that Kubiak would answer the critics with a "yeah, but he's a tough kid" and that was needed during his rough early years. They put him a sink or swim situation and he looked bad all too often but eventually became a pretty good CB......

Great observation. Every year there's "Lockdown" Corner in the draft who goes first round and disappoints. They're decent, but not like Revis. Antoine Cason is a FA this year who would fall into this example.

[barrett]

Jackson has been good for years after a terrible rookie year and a slightly disappointing 2nd year.

So far I have agreed with every player we let go, and I have agreed with every player we brought back. The veterans are out and the contracts are going to guys in their 20s. This is what needs to happen for a team that will not win a superbowl this year.

[Arky]

Imagine if they draft Phillip Dorsett, that play might actually work. ;)

Yep, in which case, the play will need to be renamed.... ;)

[WMH]

‏@AlbertBreer Per source, Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer is planning to sign with the Texans tomorrow.

@RapSheet Ex-#Browns QB Brian Hoyer plans to sign a multi-year deal with the #Texans, likely three years, I’m told. They plan to have Hoyer & Mallett

@JaysonBraddock Brian Hoyer's contract is expected to be 3 years and in the range of $12-14 million. Getting more due to playing experience.

Can't say I'm too excited about this one.

[popanot]

‏@AlbertBreer Per source, Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer is planning to sign with the Texans tomorrow.

Can't say I'm too excited about this one.I'm good with if it means Fitz is gone and at roughly the same price. Might not be much of an upgrade (if at all), but it was so painful watching Fitz last year that I'm ready for anything non-Fitz. And I don't think this necessarily means Mallett is gone either. Might hurt even hurt Savage more than Mallett.

[WMH]

I'm good with if it means Fitz is gone and at roughly the same price. Might not be much of an upgrade (if at all), but it was so painful watching Fitz last year that I'm ready for anything non-Fitz.

@MMehtaNYDN After the QB dominos fall in Houston (Hoyer & Mallett to Texans), I'm told the Jets will pursue Ryan Fitzpatrick #nyj

[WMH]

@RapSheet The #Texans have agreed to terms with QB Ryan Mallett, source said. So it’ll be Hoyer & Mallett in Houston.

‏@MarkBermanFox26 NFL sources confirm Ryan Mallett has agreed to a contract with the Texans. It's a 2-year deal.

@taniaganguli Ryan Mallett's deal with the #Texans is a 2 year deal worth $7 million. Expecting Hoyer's to be bigger.

‏@MarkBermanFox26 NFL sources confirm Ryan Mallett gets 2-year deal worth $7 million, with less than $2 million guaranteed in first year.

[popanot]

@RapSheet The #Texans have agreed to terms with QB Ryan Mallett, source said. So it’ll be Hoyer & Mallett in Houston.There you go. Fitz and Keenum are goners, for sure. I personally thing Savage might be hanging on by a thread, and it wouldn't surprise me to see them jettison him and draft someone else (Petty?).

[Arky]

Man, I like the Mallet signing but Hoyer?

Radio is saying Hoyer is gonna make more money.... I was hoping Mallet would be the starter but now I'm not so sure...

[WMH]

Man, I like the Mallet signing but Hoyer?

Radio is saying Hoyer is gonna make more money.... I was hoping Mallet would be the starter but now I'm not so sure...

Mallet is betting on himself. I kinda like that.
(Also can't believe he's that cheap)....

Hoyer signed a typical veteran back up type of deal. I'd guess it will be similiar to the Fitz structure.

[Nconroe]

Yeah, Hoyer is 6ft2in and passing completion under 60 %, 29 yrs old, so that seems like backup.

I hope Mallett succeeds and am surprised he bet on himself, but good for him and Texans.

And best wishes to Fitz and Keenum.

I was thinking now not drafting a QB, but who knows.

[popanot]

Not so fast... LOL!

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter · 26m26 minutes ago
Still a good chance QB Brian Hoyer winds up in Houston, but his agent still is negotiating with the Jets and NY will be given a chance here.

[Arky]

Mallet is betting on himself. I kinda like that.
(Also can't believe he's that cheap)....

Hoyer signed a typical veteran back up type of deal. I'd guess it will be similiar to the Fitz structure.

Aight, makes sense. It's just that I see the intangible "upside" with Mallett. Not so much with Hoyer - but he should be comfortable in this system....

I guess we should get prepared for the "open competition" blabber but I'll be flummoxed if we can't see more of Mallett this year....

[chuck]

The Texans were in the playoff hunt until the final hours of the season. Assuming that they are at least able to duplicate that record you can't risk blowing the season because you don't have a veteran backup. To me Hoyer is an ideal veteran backup. He's young, BOB knows him (and likes him, apparently), he really didn't play that badly in Cleveland and let's remember he was playing for Cleveland who have exactly one offensive player I would switch any Texan for...

If this Mallet deal is being reported accurately I think it's perfect. I hope he distinguished himself and then truly gets paid. If not, there's no Carr-like commitment. Hoyer as I've said is a very good signing. Newton and KJ were absolute musts and neither signed for what I would consider elevated sums.

It makes me wonder who the hell is in charge over there.

[Keith]

I'm starting to be a huge fan of this Texans offseason. Retaining Mallett, Kareem, and Newton were the keys. If they find a way to add Vince Wilfork and/or a legit slot receiver, I'll enter a state of euphoria.

How the team is handling the QB spot, considering the crappy options available, is en route to being darn near masterful. A prove-it deal on Mallett, possibly adding a veteran who won games in Cleveland in Hoyer, and now the possibility of trading Fitzy to the Jets. In fact, how BOB and the Texans are driving the QB landscape, making MacCagnan and the Jets sit and wait to figure out what is happening in Houston first, is flat out awesome regardless of whether the Texans end up with either Hoyer or Fitz. Got to have one of them... Mallett couldn't last two games healthy as the starter. Fluke or not, need a quality player to go with him.

Respect to O'Brien. I imagine having Gaine still in this front office is a help too.

Texans also retained Damaris Johnson today. Hopefully the team lands someone better to compete with him.

[painekiller]

. In fact, how BOB and the Texans are driving the QB landscape, making MacCagnan and the Jets sit and wait to figure out what is happening in Houston first, is flat out awesome regardless of whether the Texans end up with either Hoyer or Fitz.

If this is the case then it's the first time in my lifetime of following Houston sports. And not since the Oilers had both Dan Pastorini and Lynn Dickey have we had two guys that could push each other for the starting job, a true competition.

And having the other teams wait on the Texans and not the Texans getting the consolation prize, feels pretty good. Also it seems that guys are wanting to play for BoB.

[popanot]

Doubt it happens, but if the Texans can fleece a pick - ANY PICK - from the Jets for Fitz, then I'll have a whole new respect for the Texans front office. Hopefully, MacCagnan is that dumb.

[chuck]

Texans also retained Damaris Johnson today. Hopefully the team lands someone better to compete with him.

Demetrius Johnson, put it on the board, championship!

[popanot]

If they could get him fairly cheap, I'd like to see them go after Cecil Shorts for the slot.

[HPF Bob]

The Texans decided it was vitally important to keep one of the Johnsons. :rolleyes:

Again, I ask, "Where's Ryan Pickett"?

[Roy P]

If we signed my "cousin" again, I might be inclined to buy a R. Pickett jersey. ;)

Seriously, without knowing about Louis Nix's situation, getting Ryan to stuff the run at the NT makes perfect sense. Otherwise, drafting Goldman or my sleeper, Derrick Lott could be an interesting option.

Does anyone believe that Anthony Fasano might be a "cheap" upgrade at the TE position? Seems like we could use a guy with the ability to catch.

[Nconroe]

The Texans decided it was vitally important to keep one of the Johnsons. :rolleyes:

Again, I ask, "Where's Ryan Pickett"?

Pickett will be 36 this year and we signed him out of retirment last year.

Perhaps we would be better in a retool situation to go with a younger NT.

Agree with why did we keep Darius Johnson? fast, but didn't seem to catch or run a route. need fast for training camp. still young.

[HPF Bob]

Yes, we signed him out of retirement and he was the stud in the middle we needed. Get him for the full season even if Nix looks good. Nix has a knee history.

I don't think Pickett is going to field offers. He had decided to retire and must have come back because Romeo talked him into it. No reason that can't happen again.

Now, if we happen to sign a stud NT from another 3-4 team, okay. But where would we find the cap room for that?

[Keith]

Again, I ask, "Where's Ryan Pickett"?
In line at a Luby's for dinner at 5:30pm?




...that's right. I made an old person joke. I went there.

[chuck]

In line at a Luby's for dinner at 5:30pm?

Don't make fun of him. He's got to get home in time for Wheel of Fortune.

[WMH]

@awexler #Texans have extended contract of ILB Jeff Tarpinian. Was a special teams asset, far less so as an ILB. Led team w/ 12 sp. teams tackles

[WMH]

Oh man.....could you? Would you?
I say...hell yeah I would. Here's 2 #2's for you.

@RapSheet The #Saints have called around, open to shopping many of their players, source say. One notable player included: TE Jimmy Graham. For real.

[Keith]

From Jay Glazer:
The Saints and Seahawks are trying to finalize trade Jimmy Graham and a 4th rounder for Max Unger and Seattle first rounder


Graham is signed thru 2017, and he has a $5m roster bonus due this week and some hefty base salaries coming in 2016/17 ($8.9M & $7.9M) plus workout bonuses.

[WMH]

Dammit #2.....

@RavensInsider: Haloti Ngata traded to Detroit Lions, according to a source

[WMH]

@taniaganguli The #Texans are making an effort to sign Vince Wilfork. Need a nose tackle, and he's very familiar with Romeo Crennel.

[Keith]

This pursuit of Vince Wilfork is why I am not sweating out Ryan Pickett's whereabouts at the bingo halls (yes, another old person joke!).

I'd also like to see the team make a push for Cecil Shorts... seeing as how this offseason is going so well, I'm sure this will happen. ;)

Also, not mentioned yet is that JJo apparently hasn't been asked to restructure or extend, at least not yet. Fine by me, but if the team wants him beyond 2015, they'll do it at some point. If they don't, then 2015 is probably the Texans farewell tour for Joseph. From a cap perspective, probably so since Kareem is getting paid.

Definitely means CB is still in play for an early pick in the draft. Been saying this on Twitter lately... LB is clearly the biggest most immediate need for this team, especially with Reed leaving for the Falcons and Clowney's health in question. Mercilus nearing end of his rookie contract too. And it's not like ILB is really set either. I'd love to see some LB picks.

WR, if Shorts is signed, we can't forget about Posey, Labhart, and Uzoma Nwachukwu. I think there's something to work with there already.

[WMH]

For some reason, we've tendered Case Keenum.
@ChronBrianSmith #Texans tender QB Case Keenum
http://blog.chron.com/ultimatetexans/2015/03/texans-tender-qb-case-keenum/

How many QB's are we bringing to camp?.......

[Keith]

For some reason, the Rams just traded for Keenum, giving the Texans a 7th rounder next year.

[WMH]

For some reason, the Rams just traded for Keenum, giving the Texans a 7th rounder next year.

Sneaky.....

Pretty much negates the Mallett trade comp.

[WMH]

@MarkBermanFox26: NFL sources confirm free agent LB Bruce Carter (Cowboys) will visit the Texans after he meets with Tampa

[Keith]

Been rumored the Texans are interested in Da'Quan Bowers. He was a 2nd round pick of the Bucs in 2011. Suspended 2 games for PEDs last year... joke being that he wasn't that great on them, so he can't be much better off them.

Pursuing a LB like Carter is good news. Some holes at LB on this roster for sure.

And if the Texans can get anything for Keenum, you'd think they could get something for Ryan Fitzpatrick...

[WMH]

This has nothing to do with the Texans, but wow.......
@RapSheet: If Darrelle Revis plays out his new contract with the #Jets, he’ll have earned $155,199,500 in total, which is a lot, per sources.

[WMH]

@KimJonesSports
From @AlbertBreer & me: Once Brian Hoyer signs with Texans, a trade of Ryan Fitzpatrick to Jets could happen quickly. Sides have talked.

[WMH]

@caplannfl S Rahim Moore is visiting the #Texans today, source said.

[WMH]

@KimJonesSports
From @AlbertBreer & me: Once Brian Hoyer signs with Texans, a trade of Ryan Fitzpatrick to Jets could happen quickly. Sides have talked.

@AdamSchefter Texans are trading QB Ryan Fitzpatrick to the New York Jets for a late-round conditional draft pick, per a league source.

@MarkBermanFox26 For Ryan Fitzpatrick the Texans get a seventh-round pick from the Jets that can become a sixth-round pick based on playing time.

Guessing Hoyer liked "the area"....

[WMH]

@PatDStat Have confirmed RFA safety Eddie Pleasant will be re-signing with the #Texans.

[WMH]

@taniaganguli: Hoyer agrees to 2-year deal of $10.5 million with $4.75 guaranteed, per @caplannfl. Same length as Mallett's, significantly more $. #Texans

[Keith]

@caplannfl S Rahim Moore is visiting the #Texans today, source said.
I was surprised to hear this earlier today. Would be curious if Bob had any thoughts on Moore. It seems strange he would come here rather than follow Fox or stay in Denver but I really haven't followed his career that closely.

Moore was a 2nd round pick in 2011, so he's at the prime age. Iirc, he was involved in the play where Jacoby Jones burned the Bronco secondary for that late TD in the playoffs two years ago.

I guess the Texans think more highly of Moore than in retaining Kendrick Lewis? Lewis is older, but not by much. Maybe Lewis was asking for too much money? Hmm...

[WMH]

@MarkBermanFox26: NFL sources confirm free agent LB Bruce Carter (Cowboys) will visit the Texans after he meets with Tampa

Never got out of Tampa for that kind of scratch.

@RapSheet For Bruce Carter and the #Bucs, it’s 4 years, $20.5M. Not bad.

[HPF Bob]

Re: Rahim Moore. Yes, Broncos fans have never really forgiven him for the Jacoby Jones misplay and he's never done anything to make fans forget it. Decent hitter. Below average cover skills.

[WMH]

Re: Rahim Moore. Yes, Broncos fans have never really forgiven him for the Jacoby Jones misplay and he's never done anything to make fans forget it. Decent hitter. Below average cover skills.

Don't we already have one of those? :rolleyes:

[HPF Bob]

Interesting that when Kubiak/Smith came to Houston from Denver, the comments started that the Texans were "Denver South". Now that Kubiak has returned to Denver and brought several former Texans with him, the joke is that the Broncos will be come "Houston North". Only the Texans never had Peyton Manning.

[WMH]

@PatDStat 37s37 #Texans ---> "@OmarKelly: I'm told former UM standout Vince Wilfork has three 2-for $10M deals on the table from AFC teams.

[Keith]

Berman and McClain both tweeting that a deal between the Texans and Rahim Moore is closing in.

I have to assume the Texans see a higher ceiling with Moore. Local media is saying this doesn't mean a deal with Kendrick Lewis is off the table, but it seems to me that Lewis might get a better offer elsewhere if Moore is signed.

A 2-yr $10M offer for Wilfork sounds very reasonable. Hopefully he wants to play in Houston but them Miami boys seem tight.

[WMH]

Seems like a fire sale over in the Big Easy....

@NBCdianna New Orleans is trying to trade wide receiver Kenny Still per sources #Saints

Young kid has some skills. Wouldn't mind flipping a 3 or a 4 over for him.

[WMH]

Wouldn't mind this guy either, assuming his contract demands are reasonable.

@AdamSchefter Chiefs releasing WR Dwayne Bowe today.

[HPF Bob]

Bowe has a tendency to disappear with the game on the line. Note the Chiefs had NO touchdown passes to wide receivers last year. Tell you something?

I'd rather send a choice to NO for Still if those are my choices.

[WMH]

Bowe has a tendency to disappear with the game on the line. Note the Chiefs had NO touchdown passes to wide receivers last year. Tell you something?

Alex Smith factor?

I know what you're saying, but seems like he's still got some skills.

[popanot]

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter · 2m2 minutes ago
Former Broncos safety Rahim Moore and Texans reached agreement, per source. #Markman50

[WMH]

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter · 2m2 minutes ago
Former Broncos safety Rahim Moore and Texans reached agreement, per source. #Markman50

@McClain_on_NFL 4m4 minutes ago
FS Rahim Moore agrees to 3 year deal for $12 million with Texans.

@McClain_on_NFL 2m2 minutes ago
Moore 3 yr, 12m contract has 4.5 guaranteed. 3m cap this year

[nunusguy]

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter · 2m2 minutes ago
Former Broncos safety Rahim Moore and Texans reached agreement, per source. #Markman50

I don't know anything bout this guy, but he was a second rounwer coming out of UCLA. I guess they think he' an upgrade over K. Lewis, who I thought had a good year here in 2014.

[Keith]

I will be impressed if they retain Kendrick Lewis after signing Rahim Moore. That will really help the depth at safety, keep D.J. Swearinger off the field more in passing situations (hopefully). Might mean the end of Danieal Manning in Houston.

So next up will be a decision from Wilfork on where he wants to play. Also interested to see if the team makes any moves at WR... glad they passed up Eddie Royal at what the Bears paid, though Cecil Shorts for similar dough would be good to me. Stevie Johnson also available now... might be a good option when paired with someone from the draft.

And I guess the team is satisfied with Ben Jones as the starting center? Not sure I would be.

Hasn't been a real 'splashy' offseason for the Texans, but extremely effective so far... I'm a fan of it.

[chuck]

I'm wondering who they think the OLBs are going to be.

[Keith]

I'm wondering who they think the OLBs are going to be.

No doubt. Which is why anyone still clamoring that WR is the top need is forgetting that neither Clowney nor Reed may be starting in week 1. Mercilus is nearing the end of his rookie contract, too.

I hope this means good things about Clowney's progress, but I have been a fan of this team too long to be anywhere near that optimistic.

In unrelated news, the Jets have apparently expressed interest in Cecil Shorts.

[Roy P]

No doubt. Which is why anyone still clamoring that WR is the top need is forgetting that neither Clowney nor Reed may be starting in week 1. Mercilus is nearing the end of his rookie contract, too.

I hope this means good things about Clowney's progress, but I have been a fan of this team too long to be anywhere near that optimistic.

In unrelated news, the Jets have apparently expressed interest in Cecil Shorts.

Happy to sign Rahim Moore, he is a Centerfielder-type Safety, not a small linebacker-type.

As for OLB....Beason, Fowler, Gregory, and Dupree should all be off the board before our first pick in the draft. After those guys, 5he drop-off is pretty significant. So, the value is most likely WR in the likes of Cooper, White, Parker, or Strong. So, the decision may come down to Jaelen Strong > Eli Harold. Danielle Hunter has the workout numbers that were impressive, but not much production at LSU. My "sleeper-value pick" is Anthony Chickillo, who may be a 3rd rounder, but I would even consider the 2nd round.

I am not much of a fan of this Safety class, which makes the R. Moore signing even more important. To be honest, I'm not a big fan of the ILB candidates in this draft either, so I was hopeful that someone could be signed with better coverage skills and a better health history than Brian Cushing.

[HPF Bob]

I'd be okay with investing a second on McKinney or Perryman as ILBs if either is available.

[HPF Bob]

Overall, I'm still waiting for the DT hole to be filled and a few other spots. I'm trying to hold off evaluating until I see how they were able to manage the cap and spread the wealth from letting go of Johnson and Myers.

[Keith]

Some ability to spend money is still there too... there is $8.5 million in JJoseph's base just dying to be addressed. And I can't imagine the Texans believe that Garrett Graham will play up to the $3 million base he still has. Considering the Ravens just lost Owen Daniels, and considering that Kubiak might want someone there for when Daniels need a breather, he has to have some market value as a late day pick.

Ideally, the team addresses needs at OLB, DT, WR, and ILB (& center?) before the draft so they can just go after value with every pick. They're in a good spot still to accomplish these goals. Way better position than they were in a year ago.

[popanot]

Also interested to see if the team makes any moves at WR... glad they passed up Eddie Royal at what the Bears paid, though Cecil Shorts for similar dough would be good to me. Stevie Johnson also available now...Apparently the Texans have their sights set higher... At least ceiling/potential wise. Inquired Vikes about Patterson.

http://hou.scout.com/story/1526785-texans-checking-on-cordarrelle-patterson?s=116

[Keith]

Apparently the Texans have their sights set higher... At least ceiling/potential wise. Inquired Vikes about Patterson.

http://hou.scout.com/story/1526785-texans-checking-on-cordarrelle-patterson?s=116
Lol, now the Texans are stealing my moves in dynasty. :o Young, depressed value, huge upside.

Patterson seemed on the brink of superstardom in training camp last year. Then the wheels fell off. Apparently he is MUD spelled backwards.
Ufupa4z4Ob0

I'm all for it. And actually, adding Cordarelle shouldn't preclude going after a slot like Shorts imo.

[popanot]

Lol, now the Texans are stealing my moves in dynasty. :o Young, depressed value, huge upside.

Patterson seemed on the brink of superstardom in training camp last year. Then the wheels fell off. Apparently he is MUD spelled backwards.

I'm all for it. And actually, adding Cordarrelle shouldn't preclude going after a slot like Shorts imo.Shorts would be a serious upgrade in the slot. As far as CPat, apparently he's not available. But the Texans even inquiring about him is very interesting. Supposedly Stills is available for trade. Not sure why the Saints would want to give up a young, cheap starting-caliber player, but if he's not a complete ass and locker room cancer, I'd certainly call them and ask what they want in return. I'd also make a contract offer to RFA WR Andre Holmes (no pick compensation required).

[chuck]

I don't get the fascination with Shorts.

[popanot]

Just think he's a lot better than anything we have now and has the potential to develop into a really good slot guy. He was pretty good before he got injured and carried a pretty crappy Jags O there for awhile. I certainly wouldn't overpay for him. Only on the cheap.

[Keith]

I don't get the fascination with Shorts.
It's a depressed value, low-cost gamble on a 27-yr old player entering his prime. Shorts is a guy from a small school, 4th round pick, buried on a team far worse than the Texans. He has posted unspectacular numbers (10.5 YPC & 1 TD in 2014, both career lows) while catching passes from a series of rookies and scrubs.

He has measurables of a potential slot receiver on an offense where he does not need to be the focus. A middling 40 time and lack of breakaway speed keep his cost low. But he ran a 6.50 3-cone and a 4.07 shuttle while lifting 21 reps at the combine in 2011... elements of a strong player with some short-area quickness.

The real downside, apart from his lack of stellar #s while catching passes from golden arms like Blaine Gabbert, is that he hasn't played more than 13 games in a season in his first four years.

[barrett]

I guess everyone is convinced Shorts will really flourish when he gets a chance to play with the Texans' QBs?

I really don't want to fill holes. This team is going nowhere this year. Accumulate talent. Draft BPA. Finish clearing the books of the regime change victims. Find out if Mallet can play. We should not tie up $1 of 2016 or beyond money in the name of signing veterans who might help us win that 10th game this year.

[Keith]

The Texans are not filling a 53-man roster with 53 1st round picks. All teams fill holes. And Shorts in particular is 27... I believe anyone the team would be signing (including Wilfork) would be doing it for more than just the 2015 season.

Anyone care to guess what Wes Welker looked like after the 2006 season, his last in Miami (led by Joey Harrington at QB)? Pedestrian speed and build, he was 26 years old and averaged 10.3 YPC with 1 TD in his final season with the Dolphins.

I am not suggesting Shorts is even half the player Welker was, or that the Texans have Tom Brady ready to throw him passes, but the point is there are underrated, affordable players out there who would fulfill secondary roles and thrive in the right opportunity.

[popanot]

I really don't want to fill holes. This team is going nowhere this year. Accumulate talent. Draft BPA. Finish clearing the books of the regime change victims. Find out if Mallet can play. We should not tie up $1 of 2016 or beyond money in the name of signing veterans who might help us win that 10th game this year.I highly doubt anyone at Kirby is operating with this philosophy. At least I hope not. I sure hope they're trying to upgrade at every conceivable spot they can, when they can, without killing the cap/future - regardless if they're doing it via the draft or FA. How do you find out if Mallett can play or be successful if you don't improve the talent around him (soon)? The Texans were already looking at Hartline. I'd rather take a flyer on Shorts over Hartline if the price is the same and he's affordable and without doing a stupid contract. I'd rather have Shorts in the slot over Martin or Johnson. Shoot, I'd almost take anyone in the slot over those two guys.

[popanot]

Another slot guy I hope they take a long look at during camp is Alan Bonner. Pretty sure he's still on the roster.

[barrett]

Free Agency is a racket. Out of every 100 URFA who sign about 10 will live up to their contracts and very few will exceed them. Unless you are a destination that players want to be at you have almost no chance at getting good deals because the Oaklands and Jacksonvilles of the world flood the marketplace with terrible contracts because they have money and nothing to do with it. This just isn't the time to build a roster. It's the time to finish one. And we are far from finished. The kind of smart bargain shopping you guys are talking about happens after the FA push is done and veterans spend a few weeks with no contract and no bidder.

And Welker did not leave Miami as a no name FA who could be had for a little contract. He left for a 2nd round pick. So if your argument is that we should be sending out 2nd rounders on unproven players because it worked in 2006, then I disagree. If your logic is we should sign a FA like 2006 Wes Welker, that FA never existed. The only time Wes Welker was ever an URFA it was as an old, overpaid, slot guy with concussion issues who signed with Denver.

Everybody gets excited about FA, but about 30 teams come out with buyer's remorse every year and end up cutting the guys they signed and carrying the dead money before the contracts ever end. Who is the best FA the Texans ever signed? Jonathon Joseph I guess? What's that make them? 1 for 10? 1 for 20?

Let me put it this way, when is the last time a non-playoff team successfully used FA as a significant part of building a roster?

[Arky]

Interesting part of the Cordarrelle Patterson inquiry was that he's also a kickoff return guy and a pretty good one. Got a feeling the Texans are making more of an effort to upgrade the return game....

re: Shorts, gotta say he always looks great when the Jags play the Texans....

[Arky]

Who is the best FA the Texans ever signed? Jonathon Joseph I guess? What's that make them? 1 for 10? 1 for 20?

Off the top of my head, Anthony Smith and Daniel Manning (the first go-round) were upgrades.


Let me put it this way, when is the last time a non-playoff team successfully used FA as a significant part of building a roster?

Why limit it to non-playoff teams? Your question makes it sound like FA is not worth participating in. It's an opportunity to bolster your roster. On paper, don't the Colts look really smart for picking up AJ and Gore?

[Keith]

Let me put it this way, when is the last time a non-playoff team successfully used FA as a significant part of building a roster?You're limiting this to non-playoff teams, as the Texans failed to make the playoffs with minutes remaining in the 4th quarter of the final regular season game last year, ok. And I'm sure your definition of 'success' will get far more restrictive after reading this post. So how about I limit it further to players other non-playoff teams have acquired from just the Texans in recent years to significantly build a roster?

Here's three off the top of my head: Mario Williams (Bills), Glover Quin (Lions), Connor Barwin (Eagles).

[popanot]

The kind of smart bargain shopping you guys are talking about happens after the FA push is done and veterans spend a few weeks with no contract and no bidder.You're talking as if we want them to rush out and sign Shorts to some lucrative, cap-strapping deal. That's not the case at all, and I think it's pretty clear we both said only if he's cheap. If not him, then someone. I just don't think it's wise to go into the season hoping to get an answer on the QB situation (hopefully, Mallett) with KMart/DJ/Bonner as a starter. We already know they're below average. And that doesn't even factor in the unknown we have at the other outside WR position. Totally agree they should draft a WR somewhere along the line, though. Maybe two.

[popanot]

Here are a few more guys I'd look at or inquire about for the slot: Chris Givens, Quinton Patton, Denarius Moore (FA). They'd currently have to give up a pick for either Givens or Patton, but it wouldn't bother me at all giving up that condition pick from the Jets for one of those guys. Vincent Brown might be worth a look on an extremely cheap 1-yr prove it deal.

[barrett]

Off the top of my head, Anthony Smith and Daniel Manning (the first go-round) were upgrades.



Why limit it to non-playoff teams? Your question makes it sound like FA is not worth participating in. It's an opportunity to bolster your roster. On paper, don't the Colts look really smart for picking up AJ and Gore?

Like I said, it is a chance to finish your roster. I am betting that the AJ and Gore deals hurt far more than they help in 2017, since there is little chance either is on the roster but their dead money will be. So Indy is betting that they can win this year with those veterans. I mention non-playoff teams because in FA some players will take marginally less to sign with a contender. The Patriots are enough of a destination that they signed veterans last year without sacrificing any cap space. Of course they did that with big one year deals (Revis, Browner) that were only possible because they haven't signed too many dumb FAs in the past (Amendola is the only one I can think of to get long term money in FA from them).

We are not a contender and we are not a player or two away. Thus any deal that adds a half a win this year at the expense of a quarter of a win in 2016 and beyond is a bad deal.

As for signing cheap vets and unearthing hidden talents, the opportunity for that comes in a few weeks when guys have no jobs and sign short term deals with low guarantees. Right now all these guys are still waiting to get overpaid. Honestly we got more out of camp cuts and waiver wire guys last year than we did FA. I am glad we are mostly staying out of the FA market to this point.

[barrett]

You're talking as if we want them to rush out and sign Shorts to some lucrative, cap-strapping deal. That's not the case at all, and I think it's pretty clear we both said only if he's cheap. If not him, then someone. I just don't think it's wise to go into the season hoping to get an answer on the QB situation (hopefully, Mallett) with KMart/DJ/Bonner as a starter. We already know they're below average. And that doesn't even factor in the unknown we have at the other outside WR position. Totally agree they should draft a WR somewhere along the line, though. Maybe two.

Draft a guy. Sign a guy in a few weeks when there is no bidding or competition. Draft another guy. Let what we have fight it out in camp. But Cecil Shorts on a 1st week of FA deal is not something I want any part of.

[Roy P]

I'd be okay with investing a second on McKinney or Perryman as ILBs if either is available.

Perryman is too small/slow for my tastes. I have McKinney as a possible 3rd round pick because of better players over him, but due to the Need of the Texans and the lack of Supply in this draft, I wouldn't blame them for taking him with their second round pick. The best "Value" in the draft at that position would be Ben Heeney of Kansas. Assuming he lasts until the 5th round.

[Keith]

But Cecil Shorts on a 1st week of FA deal is not something I want any part of. I doubt anyone is arguing with you on this, as well as your point that UFA is a fools' crapshoot.

And aside from the Jets (who are a probable cluster***k thanks in part I'm sure to hiring a former Texans front office exec), 31 other teams agree with you that Shorts is not a 1st week of FA-type player either. I'll agree with that too... I just think that he tops the list of FA options for upgrading that slot position.

I'm all for drafting a WR, particularly a slot WR, with a non-1st round pick/likely middle round pick in the draft, a similar spot from which Shorts was taken four years ago. But that wouldn't preclude a team like the Texans from signing a vet. Mallett needs an upgrade from the undrafted 4th year player in Damaris Johnson who didn't really seem all that much better than Keyshawn Martin. Surprised the team gave Damaris what they did.


BTW - I have done little to none in terms of moderating these offseason threads. If y'all are cool with keeping this catch-all thread, then we'll just keep adding to it.

[WMH]

@RapSheet 7m7 minutes ago
When the #Dolphins traded for Kenny Stills, WR Mike Wallace went on the trading blocks. They’ve explored this option before, doing it now.

[Arky]

Like I said, it is a chance to finish your roster. I am betting that the AJ and Gore deals hurt far more than they help in 2017, since there is little chance either is on the roster but their dead money will be. So Indy is betting that they can win this year with those veterans. I mention non-playoff teams because in FA some players will take marginally less to sign with a contender. The Patriots are enough of a destination that they signed veterans last year without sacrificing any cap space. Of course they did that with big one year deals (Revis, Browner) that were only possible because they haven't signed too many dumb FAs in the past (Amendola is the only one I can think of to get long term money in FA from them).

We are not a contender and we are not a player or two away. Thus any deal that adds a half a win this year at the expense of a quarter of a win in 2016 and beyond is a bad deal.

As for signing cheap vets and unearthing hidden talents, the opportunity for that comes in a few weeks when guys have no jobs and sign short term deals with low guarantees. Right now all these guys are still waiting to get overpaid. Honestly we got more out of camp cuts and waiver wire guys last year than we did FA.

Well, good. Glad we'll only have to put up with AJ and Gore on the Colts for two years....

As far as the Texans not being a contender this year, they came awfully close to playoffs last year. I expect them to do better this year. Maybe a quality QB could have made the difference last year and a quality QB would be one person. If the Mallet-in-the-Cleveland-game shows up for 75% of the games, I do believe we will contend....

Obviously, little quality at QB in FA this year - we picked up Hoyer - we'll see how that goes.


I am glad we are mostly staying out of the FA market to this point.

Hoyer and Rahim Moore, am I missing anybody? Moore is a nice add, IMO....

[Keith]

Well, the Vikings just picked up Mike Wallace in a trade as minutes earlier Jason LaCanfora reported from Cordarelle Patterson's agent that his client isn't being shopped in a trade.

Maybe where there's smoke... because if the Texans were interested before, perhaps Patterson suddenly just became a bit more available...

[popanot]

Man, this one crazy offseason with all the trades. Love it!!

[Warren]

The WRs under contract:

DeAndre Hopkins: Emerging star who'll get to chance to show he's the true #1.
Damaris Johnson: Entering the last year of his contract. Filled a hole last year.
Keshawn Martin: Entering the last year of his contract. Meh.
DeVier Posey: Entering the last year of his contract. I still like him but he suited up for one more game than I did last year so it's tough to get too excited.
Alan Bonner: On IR last year, which surprised me because I thought he was one of the former draft choices cut last summer.
Jace Davis: Former Raven practice squadder; longshot to make the team.
Travis Labhart: Former practice squadder; longshot to make the team.
EZ Nwachukwu: Former practice squadder; longshot to make the team.

I'd say WR is a position of need.

[HPF Bob]

Apparently the Texans have their sights set higher... At least ceiling/potential wise. Inquired Vikes about Patterson.

http://hou.scout.com/story/1526785-texans-checking-on-cordarrelle-patterson?s=116

Oh, PATTERSON.... Flash reading I thought the Texans inquired the Vikes about PETERSON. :confused:

This makes more sense - especially if he'll return kicks. What would the ViQueens want in return? Our first-rounder and...?

[HPF Bob]

FWIW, there was number-crunching site that claimed Cecil Shorts was the NFL's worst receiver last year in terms of value-per-target. Oh, the second worst was Andre Johnson.

[Roy P]

I will admit that I wanted to draft Corderelle Patterson when he came out of Tennessee. He looked to have the size and speed of a true #1 WR. With this year's 1st round pick I am wishing Amari Cooper, Kevin White, or Devante Parker; but they could be off the board by the time we select leaving the option of Jaelen Strong. So, if Minnesota wants a 1st for Patterson, I might have to consider it. Perhaps it could be a draft day trade and we can see who's available. Regardless, I still would like to draft Phillip Dorsett or Tyler Lockett in the 3rd.

[Nconroe]

Patterson lost his starting role last year , apparently he couldn't run a route over 5 yds. Had not that many catches or yards. Coach says not in doghouse. Hmm.

not sure that says worth no 1 pick.

[Roy P]

Patterson had 33 catches last year. ..that's close to the 40 O'Brien's Offense was offering to Andre Johnson next season. ;)

[Nconroe]

Just checking Texans cap space on sportrac, with 10 mil dead money and 5 mil reserved for draft picks, appears to leave 5 mil in cap space as roster sits right now.

And really ought to hold 3 mil back for injuries during the season, so only 2 mil for spending at the moment.

So if pick up Wolfork that would about wipe out flexibility after that. Perhaps, maybe.

Or if trade for Patterson also uses up cap space.

I think I'd go with philosophy of wait a while in FA period. Plenty time. Don't go into cap space hindered right now.

[popanot]

No way I'd give up a #1 for CPat. #2 maybe, but I'd shoot for a #3. The Vikes would probably want more, but that's what I'd shoot for. Maybe kick in a conditional 2016 pick.

[chuck]

Roy P is suddenly going full Casserly on us. Hey, Roy, let's throw in a second, you know, sweeten the pot a little.

[Keith]

Previously, I didn't think I'd give up much more than a third round pick plus something of lesser value for Patterson, but then again, I was stunned at what the Dolphins gave up for Kenny Stills (a third and LB Dannell Ellerbe). So what do I know... maybe Patterson is worth a second then, and the Vikings are asking for a first?

Would you rather draft a WR in the second round or trade it for Patterson? Patterson would be cheap on the cap this year and next, a free agent in 2017. Also worth considering is that Patterson is an excellent kickoff returner. Last I checked, a returner is a big need for the Texans.

It's all very speculative anyway since the Vikings are not obligated to move him, and the NFL Network said his agent didn't think the team was shopping him around. Fun to speculate though.

As for Vince Wilfork, his agent seemed to be rather open in talking to Mark Berman on Thursday, almost a little too open. I hope the Texans aren't being made a bitch here so Wilfork can pocket more cash from the Patriots - or worse - the Colts. The Browns and Steelers were rumored to also have interest.

Lastly, saw this good piece of tweet reporting to confirm the Texans weren't bidding against themselves for Rahim Moore:
@DarrenWolfson
Finally confirmed, per source: #Vikings (https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vikings?src=hash) were IN on safety Rahim Moore. Had to go higher than Houston. Moore wanted Texans. They wouldn't.

[HPF Bob]

I watched Draft Day, the movie, for the first time the other night. Now, I'm willing to send three first-round picks for some druggie on Ritalin who can bitch out Kevin Costner even before his name gets called.

[Roy P]

I was just talking to my girlfriend about Draft Day. I love that movie. Was attempting to explain my facination with the draft to her.

[Keith]

Kendrick Lewis signed with the Ravens. With Rahim Moore signing, I suppose Lewis didn't want to play backup, and who can blame him after last season.

The Vikings cut Greg Jennings, which would seem to squash any speculation about the team trading Cordarelle Patterson.

[Roy P]

Who would you rather have, Greg Jennings or Vincent Wilfork?

[chuck]

I was just talking to my girlfriend about Draft Day. I love that movie. Was attempting to explain my facination with the draft to her.

Well, once you get a handle on it go ahead and explain it to the rest of us. I was just thinking while going through the other thread I have no fking idea why you do all of that but I sure as hell am glad you do. I can safely say that pre-draft is my favorite time of year as a Texans fan, sad as that may be. It's like spring training for a Cubs fan.

[Roy P]

Honestly, it is just a puzzle or game that I can see where the pieces fit and can't understand how the GMs who get paid cannot. So, I want to make sure that there isn't something I am missing. It started when we drafted Carr instead of Peppers and continued when we missed on Derrick Johnson and Clay Matthews, so I love being on record as to who I would've taken instead. If I had to prognosticate our picks it would be :
WR Jaelen Strong
TE Clive Walford
WR Phil Dorsett
OLB Anthony Chickillo
ILB Ben Heeney
DT Derrick Lott
QB Shane Carden

Assuming one of the top 3 WRs aren't available when we pick at #16 nor are any of the top OLBs.

[popanot]

Jabba McClain ‏@McClain_on_NFL · 20m20 minutes ago
FA WR Cecil Shorts III is visiting with Texans today.
EDIT:
------
Per Rotoworld FA Tracker - WR Rankings:

11. Kenny Britt (Re-signed 2-year, $14M deal with STL)
12. Greg Jennings
13. Cecil Shorts
14. Brian Hartline (Signed 2-year, $6M deal with CLE)
15. Eddie Royal (Signed 3-year, $15M deal with CHI)
------

IMO, STL and CHI vastly overpaid. I'd be OK with a deal in the Hartline range for Shorts as long as he's fully healthy. I'd pass if it's anything more than that. You have to think with them interested in Wilfork, Shorts and possibly others, Graham is on very thin ice at ~$2.5MM (actually, I just don't see them keeping him at that price) and a re-do with JJoe might be on the horizon. Not sure how much cap space they have available at this point.

[barrett]

EDIT:
------
Per Rotoworld FA Tracker - WR Rankings:

11. Kenny Britt (Re-signed 2-year, $14M deal with STL)
12. Greg Jennings
13. Cecil Shorts
14. Brian Hartline (Signed 2-year, $6M deal with CLE)
15. Eddie Royal (Signed 3-year, $15M deal with CHI)
------

IMO, STL and CHI vastly overpaid. I'd be OK with a deal in the Hartline range for Shorts as long as he's fully healthy. I'd pass if it's anything more than that. You have to think with them interested in Wilfork, Shorts and possibly others, Graham is on very thin ice at ~$2.5MM (actually, I just don't see them keeping him at that price) and a re-do with JJoe might be on the horizon. Not sure how much cap space they have available at this point.

I seriously don't get how Kenny Britt is still stealing money from NFL franchises. Jeff Fisher really is an idiot when it comes to offense.

[popanot]

Adam Caplan ‏@caplannfl · 2m2 minutes ago
Source confirmed. RT @FSOhioZJackson: Source says WR Cecil Shorts signing two year deal with Texans. He visited team today.It will be interesting to see the contract and if Smith is really a changed man this offseason.

[popanot]

Wilfork a Texan too:

Ian Rapoport ‏@RapSheet · 2m2 minutes ago
Wilfork to #Texans, per Wilfork RT @wilfork75: Thank you everyone for everything your support has been tremendous

Man, I just hope these contracts are sensible. If so, I like what they're doing. I'm always an advocate of upgrading wherever you can as long as it's smart and doesn't kill the cap/future.

[Arky]

2 years for Shorts sounds like a show-us-what-you-got deal....

Wilfork: Say goodbye to the clam chowda. Say hello to some tasty tacos....

[popanot]

Shorts Deal:
@McClain_on_NFL: Cecil Shorts III two-year, $6 million deal includes $2.5 guaranteed.Right in the Hartline range and about what I expected. Seems fair to me. Bye-bye Martin.

[Blitzwood]

Getting Shorts and Wilfork the same day, NICE!!


We can scratch those two positions from the top half of the draft now. I'm thinking a DB, OLB, and possibly a 3-4 DE, with maybe a X WR or QB possibly in there somewhere.

[popanot]

I'm not sure how much $$ the Texans have left, but I'd submit an offer sheet to Andre Holmes, OAK WR. OAK gave him the lowest possible tender so there wouldn't be any picks involved. He's young, big and fast and flashed some big-time potential when given the opportunity. Probably a long shot considering OAK has cash to burn, but it's worth a shot, IMO. OAK giving him a low tender might be a red flag, but I haven't heard anything bad about him and teams have made the low-tender mistake in the past.

[Nconroe]

Wow, better than I expected for this FA season.

Now got me wondering what the next changes will be.

[barrett]

I don't mind two year deals at all. It is when deals get in the 3+ range I think you are sacrificing some of the future. These sound like good deals.

[popanot]

@RapSheet: Vince Wilfork’s 2-year, $9M #Texans contract has $5M guaranteed in the first year. After that, it’s wait-and-see for both sidesAgain, not a bad deal. Right about market and no real cap implications. Nice upgrade. I'm starting to think Rick Smith has been abducted by aliens.

[HPF Bob]

I don't give up on a WR at #16 just because we signed Shorts. :confused:

I'm still on the Parker/Strong bandwagon. We need a legit threat with DeAndre.

[popanot]

I don't think they're done at WR either. While I wouldn't have a problem with them going WR at 16, I think they'll wait and go LB, OL (C/G), or Edge now.

[Keith]

I don't know that any of these signings off other teams, taken as a whole, should significantly alter the Texans' draft plans. These are 2- or 3-year deals, somewhat front-loaded at that. Draft picks have a longer scope. These signings just help prevent the immediate needs for the next 1-2 years.

The 'long-term' team needs are really still the same... OLB, ILB, WR, C, CB, and possibly even QB... in some order.

That's part of what makes the potential of today's signings (Wilfork and Shorts) so good... they help alleviate the need to force a pick in the early rounds and allow the team to focus on long-term needs.

[chuck]

As far as the draft goes I'm not really wed to any position; I'd just kind of like to see them take some guys that suit up and play and make a positive impact. That would be swell.

[painekiller]

I don't give up on a WR at #16 just because we signed Shorts. :confused:

I'm still on the Parker/Strong bandwagon. We need a legit threat with DeAndre.

I agree with the concept of a WR at #16. They still don't have a real replacement for AJ on the outside. IMO Short is more of a slot guy, and I don't know that I trust Posey yet.

I had been hoping that they would take NT/DE Brown from Texas, but I don't see that happening now. But Brown can play DE and that would be a heck of a DL in the 3-4. Brown-Wilfork-Watt.

I like the WR angle but I am not sure a great one will be there at 16, so I am thinking CB.

[popanot]

I think a big factor will be Clowney's status the closer we get to the draft. If it looks like he's not coming back anytime soon, or heaven forbid never, I could see us going Edge since there seems to be a high number of quality prospects at that position with Beasley, Gregory, Fowler, Ray, Dupree... I could see one of those guys being there at #16.

I'm not sure how BOB feels about him, but if Mariota falls to #10 (Rams) or #11 (Vikings), I'm thinking hard about trading up. He won't make it past #12 (CLE). Might be the one shot at a top QB prospect in BOB's tenure.

EDIT: After looking at the draft order, I'd be surprised MM falls past 6 or 7. Can't see the Jets or Bears passing him up. Maybe even the Skins at 5.

[nunusguy]

I think a big factor will be Clowney's status the closer we get to the draft. If it looks like he's not coming back anytime soon, or heaven forbid never, I could see us going Edge since there seems to be a high number of quality prospects at that position with Beasley, Gregory, Fowler, Ray, Dupree... I could see one of those guys being there at #16.

I'm not sure how BOB feels about him, but if Mariota falls to #10 (Rams) or #11 (Vikings), I'm thinking hard about trading up. He won't make it past #12 (CLE). Might be the one shot at a top QB prospect in BOB's tenure.

EDIT: After looking at the draft order, I'd be surprised MM falls past 6 or 7. Can't see the Jets or Bears passing him up. Maybe even the Skins at 5.

The Draft is not much more than a month away and I don't think we will know much more if anything more about Clowneys impact or lack thereof on our 2015 season by then.
I don't see MM as a Bob kinda QB, and getting him would likely be prohibitively expensive for the Texans. But there may be somebody else in this Draft he likes ? He's had a respectable FA this year, nothing spectacular
while keeping our cap very much under control and also filling some needs.

[popanot]

If the draft fell this way...

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25109468/nfl-mock-draft-solving-the-marcus-mariota-mystery

...I pull the trigger and move up to #10 or #11 for Mariota. I don't think it would cost all that much to move up into that range from #16, and like I said, it might be the only chance in a long time to have a shot at a top QB prospect that is young, cheap and cap-saving for probably the next 4 years. If I'm HC and it looks like I'm going to be picking middle-of-the-pack range for the next few years (like it looks like the Texans might be) and have a shot at a top prospect, I'm pulling the trigger. I'd be done with the 3rd/4th/5th RD experiments.

That's not to say BOB will or that MM makes sense in his scheme, just that I would do it.

[chuck]

If the draft fell this way...

That's an interesting mock but Dorial Green-Beckham is an ideal example of the sort of player the Texans never have anything to do with.

[popanot]

That's an interesting mock but Dorial Green-Beckham is an ideal example of the sort of player the Texans never have anything to do with.I thought the same thing. No way they would go DBG that high with his baggage. MAYBE if he fell to RD2 or RD3 and someone, somehow persuaded McNair.

[HPF Bob]

I'm getting more interested in taking Strong. He's stronger and faster than Parker. Muscles defenders for the ball. Papa was a basketball star in college.

What he lacks is quickness at the snap but AJ wasn't that fast off the line either. I think he makes a good replacement.

Dorial G-B's profile reads too much like Justin Blackmon. A physical beast but wayyy too many red flags for me.

[WMH]

Enter-Sports ‏@EnterSportsMgmt 5h5 hours ago
Congrats to client, @AkeemDent, on agreeing to terms on new 2-year deal with Houston Texans! @AdamSchefter @ProFootballTalk

Mark Berman ‏@MarkBermanFox26 11s12 seconds ago
Akeem Dent's 2-year contract with the Texans is for $4.5 million with $2 million guaranteed.

[Roy P]

Roy P is suddenly going full Casserly on us. Hey, Roy, let's throw in a second, you know, sweeten the pot a little.

I am insulted being compared to Casserly, a man I nicknamed "Rasputin" and hope that you were joking. When I commented that Codarrelle Patterson could snag 40 catches, I was joking that was the "plan" for Andre Johnson in O'Brien's Offense this upcoming season.

[Roy P]

I don't think they're done at WR either. While I wouldn't have a problem with them going WR at 16, I think they'll wait and go LB, OL (C/G), or Edge now.

I hope that there are at least options at #16 now. I don't see a 1st round ILB in this class. And I wouldn't hesitate to take Amari Cooper, Kevin White, or Devante Parker if they were available. The same goes for Vic Beasley, Dante Fowler, Randy Gregory, Shane Ray, or Bud Dupree if they are there. This class has decent OL like Scherff and Erving who may be better BPA when compared to Jaelen Strong or Eli Harold though. So, it depends on how the draft unfolds and not about filling your biggest glaring need.

[Roy P]

If the draft fell this way...

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25109468/nfl-mock-draft-solving-the-marcus-mariota-mystery

...I pull the trigger and move up to #10 or #11 for Mariota.

That's not to say BOB will or that MM makes sense in his scheme, just that I would do it.

According to the Draft Chart, moving up to #10 from #16 would cost our 3rd round pick, but the Rams would have to part with their 4th & 5th round picks to even it out. Personally, I would rather have the extra 5th round pick, get the guy I wanted at #10, and hope I can get a 3rd round talent with the 4th rounder.

[Nconroe]

Just looking at the team roster on Texans web site, looks like Texans currently list 69 players, some will come and go , several names on there I don't recognize from last year.

But if add 10 draft picks, that brings count to 79, and need 90 for OTA start I believe, so 11 more of some type of UDFA, FA, to go to camp.

First workout with experienced players on roster is April 20. Maybe some QB competition coverage right before the draft.

Tim Jamison is one of our long time dependable players at DE who might get resigned?

By positioin groups see currently:
Offense
Oline
C 2
OG 3
OT 8

WR 9
RB 4
TE 4
FB 1
QB 3

Defense
Dline
DE 4
DT 3

OLB 8
ILB 3
CB 9
SS 5

Special Teams
K 1
P 1
LS 1

[WMH]

@RapSheet: The #Texans are in discussions about bringing back versatile DL Antonio Smith, who was just released by the #Raiders. Could move quickly.

[painekiller]

@RapSheet: The #Texans are in discussions about bringing back versatile DL Antonio Smith, who was just released by the #Raiders. Could move quickly.


Antonio, Wilfork, Watt and add in Crick, Pagen, Nix to that. I like that front on paper.

If Nix makes it he field. That is a nice 6 man rotation.

[popanot]

ProFootballTalk ‏@ProFootballTalk · 13m13 minutes ago
Texans sign Nate Washington http://wp.me/p14QSB-9K5n
1Yr deal for $1MM - $30K guaranteed. Cheap enough.

[WMH]

1Yr deal for $1MM - $30K guaranteed. Cheap enough.

Definitely a low risk deal. Certainly having a vet like that can't hurt.

[Nconroe]

Surprises me, now we have 10 WR on roster.

[popanot]

Probably reading more into it than what's there, but with Washington and Shorts on board, perhaps WR isn't a huge priority now with Smith/BOB and they wait until RD2 or 3 to grab one. It seems the two areas we thought were high need, NT and WR, are now less likely the pick at #16.

[Roy P]

Probably reading more into it than what's there, but with Washington and Shorts on board, perhaps WR isn't a huge priority now with Smith/BOB and they wait until RD2 or 3 to grab one. It seems the two areas we thought were high need, NT and WR, are now less likely the pick at #16.

I guess it all depends upon who is available at #16. I would still draft Amari Cooper or Kevin White if they slipped. Same for Malcolm Brown if he dropped. Then again, if Bud Dupree or Vic Beasley is there when we select, then you have the flexibility to take the BPA.

[WMH]

Probably reading more into it than what's there, but with Washington and Shorts on board, perhaps WR isn't a huge priority now with Smith/BOB and they wait until RD2 or 3 to grab one. It seems the two areas we thought were high need, NT and WR, are now less likely the pick at #16.

I agree. From what I see, they've put them in a position to not "have" to take position X or Y, and they can let the board fall to them. These guys aren't HOF's, well maybe Wilfork might sniff it, but they have the potential to be contributors.

I'm also happy to see the contracts associated with what they've done, as it doesn't appear we'll be hamstrung as a result of over paying FA's.

[WMH]

@RapSheet: The #Texans are in discussions about bringing back versatile DL Antonio Smith, who was just released by the #Raiders. Could move quickly.

Dammit Wade....

Tania Ganguli ‏@taniaganguli 8m8 minutes ago
reunites with Kollar instead of #Texans RT @RapSheet: Antonio Smith has agreed to a 1-year deal for $2M with #Broncos, per @RosenhausSports

[Blitzwood]

Take it for what it's worth...

http://np.reddit.com/r/Texans/comments/317rjx/my_insider_told_me_louis_nix_will_be_cut/

[Roy P]

Dammit Wade....

Tania Ganguli ‏@taniaganguli 8m8 minutes ago
reunites with Kollar instead of #Texans RT @RapSheet: Antonio Smith has agreed to a 1-year deal for $2M with #Broncos, per @RosenhausSports

I have 4 guys to potentially take Antonio's place: Henry Anderson, Preston Smith, Xavier Cooper, or "late round prospect" Derrick Lott.

[chuck]

Take it for what it's worth...
http://np.reddit.com/r/Texans/comments/317rjx/my_insider_told_me_louis_nix_will_be_cut/

So they draft Sam Montgomery one year and Nix the next. What the f are their scouts doing? Do they not talk to anyone? Do they simply not believe it when a college coach tells them that player X is a POS?

[HPF Bob]

Nix is simply last year's winner of the Bennie Joppru Award. Seems every year the Texans draft someone who turns out to be entirely useless - typically in the second or third round.

2002 - Charles Hill, 3rd rd.
2002 - (suppl) Tony Hollings, 2nd rd
2003 - Bennie Joppru, 2nd rd., Seth Wand, 3rd rd., Dave Ragone, 3rd rd.
2004 - traded 2nd and 3rd to Tenn for Jason Babin
2005 - Vernand Morency, 3rd rd.
2006 - Charles Spencer, 3rd rd.
2007 - traded 2nd for Matt Schaub
2008 - traded 2nd for Matt Schaub, Antwuan Molden, 3rd rd.
2011 - Brandon Harris, 2nd rd.
2012 - DeVier Posey, 3rd rd*
2013 - Brennan Williams, 3rd rd, Sam Montgomery, 3rd rd.
2014 - Louis Nix, 3rd rd

* - could still merit his selection but it looks less likely each year.

So, as you can see, our record in the 2nd and 3rd sucks ass more often than not under both Casserly and Smith. 2009 and 2010 are the only years where they didn't pick a dud in either round (or traded away the pick) although one could argue about Antoine Caldwell in 2009.

They should probably lock Smith out of the war room on Day 2 and let a blind squirrel do their drafting. The squirrel might do better.

[Nconroe]

Not worth arguing but that is rather poor analysis leaving out many incidentals.

[barrett]

It's ridiculous to list the Schaub picks as a waste. The guy was a good QB and provided great return on those picks up until his last year here. GMs with no QB (or worse, GMs with Derek Carr) would all be thrilled to get the first 5 years of Matt Schaub we got and the division titles that came with that stretch.

Schaub was one of the biggest factors in our transition from joke to above-average franchise. He was then one of the biggest factors holding us back in our efforts to move beyond above average. But I have great appreciation for him and I am guessing you would be hard pressed to hind sight cherry pick those two picks into a bigger payoff for Houston.

Just for comparison's sake, 5 QBs were drafted in the 2nd rounds of the 2007 and 2008 draft. They are Kevin Kolb, John Beck, Drew Stanton, Brian Brohm, and Chad Henne.

[HPF Bob]

My point wasn't to diss Schaub. My point was to explain why there was no mid-round bust because we had less mid-round picks, the same reason I list Babin in 2004.

My other point is that our busts are not low-round "gambles" but guys who ought to be expected to give at least a few good seasons. I almost left Morency off the list because he was halfway decent and I left Caldwell off the list because I can't really say what he contributed but he was at least here. But most of the guys listed here, for whatever reason, did not return value you'd expect for a 2nd or 3rd rounder.

[chuck]

Joppru and Spencer got hurt after they were drafted so although I enjoy complaining about the FO more than anyone I have to give them a pass there. But the Boselli/Hill tandem of the expansion and first draft did set a nice tone for things to come.

[barrett]

My point wasn't to diss Schaub. My point was to explain why there was no mid-round bust because we had less mid-round picks, the same reason I list Babin in 2004.

My other point is that our busts are not low-round "gambles" but guys who ought to be expected to give at least a few good seasons. I almost left Morency off the list because he was halfway decent and I left Caldwell off the list because I can't really say what he contributed but he was at least here. But most of the guys listed here, for whatever reason, did not return value you'd expect for a 2nd or 3rd rounder.

My bad for misreading your post then.

Either way we can all agree we have failed to make rounds 2-3 work with very few exceptions.

[WMH]

From PFT:
Last week, there were a couple of reports about free agent safety Stevie Brown’s potential landing spots.

One had the Giants close to re-signing him while the other included them among a group of five teams that were interested in Brown’s services. The Texans weren’t one of those teams, but they may work their way into the mix.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports that Brown visited with the Texans on Tuesday.

Houston signed Rahim Moore as a free agent earlier this offseason and have D.J. Swearinger returning for his third season, which doesn’t provide Brown with a clear shot at a starting job. The Giants have fewer obstacles in Brown’s way, but if their offer isn’t where Brown wants it to be that might not be enough for them to close the deal.

Visiting with another team can be a good way to get the wheels moving, however, so Brown may still wind up back with the Giants.

[WMH]

Bolstering our RB depth a bit.

From PFT:
Report: Texans reach deal with RB Chris Polk
Posted by Mike Wilkening on April 28, 2015, 6:00 PM EDT

The Texans have reached a contract agreement with Polk, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reported.

Polk (5-11, 222) is likely to compete with Alfred Blue and Jonathan Grimes for time behind Arian Foster in the Texans’ backfield. Polk rushed for 172 yards and four touchdowns on 46 carries for Philadelphia in 2014.

The Eagles tendered Polk as a restricted free agent, but they pulled the offer on Friday. With DeMarco Murray, Ryan Mathews and Darren Sproles ahead of him in the pecking order, the 25-year-old Polk might have struggled to get many carries in Philadelphia, and he could have been in danger of not making the club. However, in Houston, Polk would seem to have a chance to push for the top backup role.

[WMH]

Bolstering our safety depth a bit. Wonder if the Swearinger on the trading block has any teeth.

From PFT:
By Michael David Smith
April 29, 2015, 4:45 PM CDT
Texans sign safety Stevie Brown

Stevie Brown is heading to Houston.

Brown, a veteran safety who played the last three years with the Giants, is joining the Texans. Brown told Kim Jones of NFL Network that he agreed to terms with the Texans today.

The Texans brought Brown in for a visit last week, and it was believed likely that he would end up in Houston. With their depth at the position, the Texans are trying to trade safety D.J. Swearinger.

A 2010 seventh-round pick of the Raiders, Brown bounced around the league from Oakland to Carolina to Indianapolis before landing with the Giants. He had a breakout season in 2012, with eight interceptions and two forced fumbles, but he wasn’t as good a player last year.