3 possible cuts from other teams who could help the Texans
The 2021 Houston Texans are already shaping up to be very different from the 2020 version of the team that went 4-12.
On Friday, the team parted ways with running back Duke Johnson and center Nick Martin. Both were considered central acquisitions and re-signings of the Bill O’Brien era and their departure represents a new direction for the team.
Texans fans can expect a myriad of departures in the coming weeks as new general manager Nick Caserio begins to mold the roster to his vision. As such, fans should also expect to see new faces brought in that align with what Caserio and new coach David Culley want the team to look like.
Going off of Pro Football Focus’ cut candidates for all 32 NFL teams, here are three players who, if available, would be able to help the Texans in 2021.
TE Jimmy Graham
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It is very likely at this point that Deshaun Watson is not going to be the Texans' quarterback for the 2021 season. Watson just this past week expressed to coach Culley that he did not intend to play the 2021 campaign with Houston and was adamant on a trade. Regardless of how Houston will look without No. 4 under center, the offense will likely look very different in 2021. Many of the speculated options are younger guys, including Sam Darnold, Tua Tagovailoa, or any of the 2021 rookies. Bringing in a respected veteran tight end like Graham, if he was cut from the Chicago Bears, immediately gives a safety blanket to any of these young signal caller. The ability to mentor younger guys like Jordan Akins or Kahale Warring, in addition to being a massive red-zone target (an option the Texans missed last season), makes Graham a potential fit in Houston.
LB Kwon Alexander, New Orleans Saints
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Many in Houston are speculating that Bernardrick McKinney, Whitney Mercilus, or even recently re-signed Zach Cunningham could be on the move this offseason for Houston as the team attempts to salvage an atrocious cap situation. As such, the linebacking room is potentially in disarray and certainly in need of depth or potential starters. Enter Alexander. Alexander was acquired by the Saints right before the trade deadline from the San Francisco 49ers and will likely be one of many cap casualties in New Orleans. Alexander would provide immediate depth and stabilize one of the Texans' most unstable position groups.
CB Lamarcus Joyner, Las Vegas Raiders
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Like Short, Joyner isn't far removed from a large extension himself. In March of 201, Joyner signed a four year deal with the Oakland Raiders worth $42M. Two years later and following some bumpy play this past season, Joyner is considered a cut candidate for the team that now plays in Las Vegas. Joyner plays slot cornerback, one of Houston's biggest weaknesses this past season. Even if he doesn't return to his 2019 level of play, Joyner likely represents an upgrade from the likes of Phillip Gaines and Eric Murray's of the world. There will be plenty of both expected and unexpected free agents available once the league year begins this March. With one of the worst rosters in the league, it would be irresponsible for Houston not to take a few gambles this offseason.
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