Andre Johnson stirred up a lot of drama prior to the 2014 season when he questioned his future with the Houston Texans. The franchise wide receiver said he was simply tired of losing and was uncertain with the direction the team was headed in. This season has certainly been a struggle, especially at the quarterback position, but Johnson says that he is looking to stay with the Texans for the long-term even if it means taking a pay cut.
Johnson changed his tune mid-way through the season telling the Houston Chronicle that he planned on playing his entire career with the Texans. The 12-year pro says he envisions himself playing in the league 15 years and wants them to be in Houston. However, a pay cut will be necessary if Johnson opts to stay in Texas, something he is willing to do.
"Nobody wants to hear that," said Johnson, per The Chronicle's Brian T. Smith. "But it's the nature of the business. I've seen it happen, heard it happen, had it happen to friends of mine. I understand that. I hope it all works out, where I can finish my career here and hopefully get this organization a Super Bowl before I retire. If it doesn't, then I'd hate to see it end that way. But you have to just keep moving forward."
Johnson's contract is an issue. The wide receiver is set to get $10.5 million in guaranteed money next season. He is a $16.1 cap hit. That is a tough blow for the Texans who still have some rebuilding to do in the future. Johnson's production has also slipped this year. After putting up back-to-back seasons of at least 1,407 yards, he has just 802 yards on the season in 2014 and two touchdowns. Now that can easily be summed up to the four quarterbacks the Texans have started this season, something that is not going to improve.
Their is trade interest in Johnson. The New England Patriots have been linked to the wide receiver. The Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints would also be interested. Johnson has certainly faced trade rumors throughout the year after what he said in regards to the preseason. While the quarterback position is a major issue, Johnson now appears ready to hold out and stick with it.
The big change the Texans will make this offseason is for a quarterback. Ryan Fitzpatrick has not worked out. Ryan Mallett has barely seen action before suffering an injury. Tom Savage got injured. Head coach Bill O'Brien could opt to re-sign Mallett and see how he works out in order to save money.
