Houston Texans Rumors: 5 players to target in free agency this offseason
By T.A. Mock
Muhammad Wilkerson, DE, Green Bay Packers
Help along the defensive line is not a huge priority for the Houston Texans this offseason but it is something the team should consider. The team is losing three contributors that played defensive line last year in Christian Covington, Angelo Blackson, and Brandon Dunn.
Those guys played perfectly to complement Clowney, J.J. Watt, and D.J. Reader. Clowney could also be gone this offseason if the team opts to not franchise him or trade him. So, this is a spot where the team could look find a contributor.
Muhammad Wilkerson could have a similar impact the way Mathieu did this past season at a similar price point. Wilkerson is trying to rebuild some of the value that he had while playing for the Jets. He was hoping to do that this past year with Packers but got hurt after three games.
Wilkerson could provide excellent pass rush and run defense from a 3-4 defensive end spot. One of the biggest concerns is his effort and maturity in the locker room but the Texans have a very strong locker room that will hold him accountable in that regard. A one year $5-$6 million prove it deal could be well worth it.
Another option: Mario Edwards Jr., DE, New York Giants
If the Houston Texans don’t want to spend top dollar to revamp their defensive line, they could opt for cheaper, high upside guy like Mario Edwards. His rookie season with the Raiders was his best one and he has yet to capture the same magic but he still has some high upside.
Edwards could end up being about the same Covington and could come at a similar or cheaper cost. The Texans probably will need a reinforcement or two on the defensive line and Edwards fits the bill.