Who Could Lure Andre Johnson from the Houston Texans?
By Erik Lambert
Nov 24, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson (80) makes a reception during the fourth quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Reliant Stadium. The Jaguars defeated the Texans 13-6. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Despite a few months passing and a new influx of talent for the Houston Texans, Andre Johnson remains steadfast in his uncertainty to stay there. If a trade does begin to circulate, are there any teams who could step to the forefront?
Cleveland Browns are front runners after Josh Gordon mess
Every trade situation tends to bring up a no-brainer team that seems like the obvious destination. In a case like Andre Johnson, that team has to be the Cleveland Browns. Prior to the draft is seemed like they were set up for success. They had a talented, young roster in place that merely needed some additions to bring it all together. One area was wide receiver. Despite the presence of 2013 receiving leader Josh Gordon, there was a feeling the depth was an issue by many. Recent events have accelerated those concerns. Gordon reportedly tested positive on another drug test, an infraction that could see him banned from the league for an entire season and all but crippling the entire Browns passing attack. Without him some would argue they don’t even have a #2 receiver, let alone a #1. That would make a proven star like Johnson look awfully enticing. He could give them an outside option to help tight end Jordan Cameron and the Browns have the salary cap space to handle his big contract. It would also ease the pressure on rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel if and when he sees the field.
Cincinnati Bengals and Philadelphia Eagles fit his bill
The problem is the Browns would not be an ideal destination for Johnson. His clear desire is not about money but winning. Cleveland is not a contender at this stage and while improving offers few guarantees in the near future. Johnson wants to join a winning team that can get him to a Super Bowl. So the question is which such teams have the means and the motive? At the top of the list are the Cincinnati Bengals and the Philadelphia Eagles. Both have enough cap space to handle Johnson’s contract and both have serious reason to put him on their offense. The Bengals would jump at the chance to pair him with their own All-Pro A.J. Green, giving Andy Dalton yet another dynamic weapon. Meanwhile the Eagles are run by an offensive mastermind in Chip Kelly who could find a myriad of ways to use Johnson alongside Jeremy Maclin, Zach Ertz and LeSean McCoy.
The fact is the Houston Texans have no reason to get rid of Andre Johnson at the moment. Until he forces the issue no trade is going to happen. Still, the possibility lingers and there is no shortage of places he can land.