The Greatest Trade For Every NFL Team In History

Houston Texans:  The Jason Babin trade

Given its the youngest NFL franchise in existence, it’s easy to understand that the Houston Texans might not have the same cache of trades to choose from other hallmark organizations might. That doesn’t mean they haven’t produced a memorable one. In 2004 the Texans were hoping to improve their defensive line, especially the pass rush. So they worked out a deal with the Titans that involved sending their 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th round picks in exchange for the #27 overall choice and a 5th rounder.

It was a considerable expense, but Houston felt that strongly about their target. That was Western Michigan defensive end Jason Babin. For the next three seasons he was one of their more dependable players on the edge, but being trapped in a 3-4 scheme playing outside linebacker limited his effectiveness as a pass rusher. He had 13 sacks total by the end of 2006. Unfortunately they made the mistake of letting him go just as they were switching to a 4-3 attack. After bouncing around the league for a few seasons, Babin ironically landed in Tennessee where he produced 12.5 sacks in 2010. Then he piled up 18 in 2011 for the Eagles. Both years ended in Pro Bowls.

Turns out the Texans were right about Babin the entire time. They just never maintained the patience to see if he might work out in their new scheme in 2007.

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