The Houston Texans have probably gained some additional insight into their preferences for their first-round selection in the NFL Draft as the NFL Scouting Combine draws to a close.
They won’t lack potential gaps to cover, though. Even though the previous season exceeded expectations, a number of contributors are set to enter free agency. Devin Singletary, the running back, has not yet been re-signed, and raises are overdue for all defensive starters.
Jonathan Greenard, the Texans’ edge rusher, is probably going to get paid more this offseason than any other player. That does not imply that the money will be sent to Houston.
Having just finished his finest season to date, Greenard leads the team in quarterback hits (22), sacks (12.5), and tackles for loss (15). In addition to being an important member of the Texans’ defensive line and a player they can’t afford to lose, he broke out at the optimum moment for his future pay.
Aaron Wilson claims that communication between the parties indicates that an extension is most likely feasible.
Wilson tweeted, “Now that his rookie contract has expired, the #Texans and Jonathan Greenard have a strong mutual interest in extending their working relationship.” “And according to league sources, the AFC South champions and their former third-round draft pick are still motivated, optimistic, and actively investigating whether a financial compromise can be reached.”
Given his promising 2023, Greenard has been tipped for contracts worth between $16 million and $22 million. Nevertheless, teams might hesitate if they only had one outstanding year of output.
The significance of a real edge threat and the potential number of interested clubs might complicate things. Despite its interest, Houston might believe he’s not worth as much as anticipated, but he’s forced to pay more since other parties are raising the stakes.
Wilson said, “That doesn’t mean that Greenard will necessarily stay with the Texans, but neither side has ruled out that possibility.” “The Texans have a lot of salary cap space, but the ultimate decision will depend on whether a possible bidding war with other teams makes that possibility financially undesirable for them.”
Houston might give priority to secondary improvements or other defensive positions, such as defensive tackle Chris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs. However, allowing Greenard to go in search of better opportunities would require meeting that requirement through an early choice or a different free-agent project. In turn, the Texans would forfeit Greenard’s familiarity and the intangibles he offers.
Making sure Will Anderson Jr. has a strong running partner is the most crucial task facing general manager Nick Caserio on the defensive side of the line of scrimmage.