How will the Texans replace veteran wide receiver Andre Johnson, the greatest player in franchise history?
The normal ways: Free agency and the draft.
Green Bays Randall Cobb tops the potential 2015 free-agent class and could command a contract of at least $10 million annually. Cobb collected 91 catches for 1,287 yards and 12 touchdowns last season for the Packers, who came a couple minutes away from advancing to the Super Bowl.
Wide receiver Amari Cooper (9) Cooper was Alabamas biggest offensive weapon by far, and one of the nations most prolific receivers. (AP Photo / Jonathan Bachman, File)
Philadelphias Jeremy Maclin (85 catches, 1,318 yards, 10 TDs in 2014) had a career season in 2014 and is entering the prime of his career after recovering from ACL surgery.
San Franciscos Michael Crabtree, Baltimores Torrey Smith and Jacksonvilles Cecil Shorts are among top receivers who could also be available on the open market.
With Johnson set to make $10.5 million in guaranteed money and count $16.1 million against the Texans 2015 salary cap, the Texans could add a comparable receiver at less cost in the short and long term. By releasing Johnson, they would enter free agency with almost $22 million in cap space.
The 2015 draft class is again deep at receiver, initially appearing to match an especially strong 2014 group that included the New York Giants Odell Beckham, Buffalos Sammy Watkins and Tampa Bays Mike Evans. Kevin White (West Virginia) and Amari Cooper (Alabama) are expected to be off the board when the Texans make the No. 16 overall pick this year. But Louisvilles DeVante Parker, Arizona States Jaelen Strong and Missouris Dorial Green-Beckham should be available, with premier talent remaining in rounds 2-3.
Last December, Johnson proudly linked his football future with the only team hes ever played for.
Thats the dream. Thats what I hope for, Johnson said. When youve spent a lot of time somewhere, you hope that you can finish your career there and walk off into the sunset in that one place.
The longtime Texan, who is already building his retirement house in Houston, will now seek a new team while the Texans explore how to best replace No. 80 in 2015.
brian.smith@chron.com
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