With training camp just around the corner, trade rumors regarding Andre Johnson have crept back into the mix. The leading wide receiver for the Houston Texans has not been seen since he made comments questioning his future with the franchise that he leads all receiving stats in. Houston has downplayed any idea that they plan on trading the wide receiver this season, but several teams are hoping they change their mind.
According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the divide between Johnson and the Texans organization is getting wider heading into training camp. Johnson is owed $6.4 million in 2014. He has already missed out on his $1 million workout bonus. Trading Johnson now means the Houston Texans still eat upwards of $12 million in dead money. That is more than he is set to make this season alone. Financially, it makes little to no sense to trade the receiver now, which was the stance Houston was taking earlier in the offseason. However, Rapoport believes they may have no other option at this point.
So far, the Texans have resisted the notion of giving into Johnson's holdout. The wide receiver does not appear to be demanding more money in a new contract, he told reporters that he simply tired of losing. However, the Cleveland Browns are the favorites to make a deal for Johnson and there is no telling whether they can be better than Houston in 2014.
The Browns are remaining committed to Josh Gordon. According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Browns are invested in Gordon and intend to help him develop as a player and person during this suspension that is set to be handed down. However, that does not mean they do not need to replace his production. Gordon was the leading receiver last season and missing him will hurt Brian Hoyer and Johnny Manziel. The Browns have the cap space to take on Johnson and slew of first-round picks to please the Texans. They just have to make the jump.
According to Bleacher Report, the New England Patriots are be interested should the wide receiver be truly available. More so than ever before, New England has made some splashy moves this offseason. Johnson would no doubt be a huge upgrade for the receiving corps running alongside Julian Edelman. With uncertainly surrounding Danny Amendola, Johnson's numbers would be a welcomed gift to New England.
Will Johnson be traded? No. Houston has no interest in eating that money. However, Johnson could easily hold out for a good portion of training camp which might force the Texans' hand to make a move now instead of later.