Trade Idea: Should Houston Texans Pursue Panthers Defensive Tackle Derrick Brown?

Could Derrick Brown go to the Houston Texans in free agency with his rookie contract expiring?

Jan 7, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Derrick Brown (95) / Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Texans are facing a defensive challenge with several of their top tacklers from last season no longer on the roster.

Despite their success against the run last year, ranking fifth in success rate, the team still requires reinforcement in the interior defensive line after significant losses in free agency.

While the Texans added Foley Fatukasi after his release from the Jacksonville Jaguars, there is still a need at the position.

Jan 7, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Derrick Brown (95) / Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

To address this gap, acquiring Derrick Brown from the Carolina Panthers would provide a significant boost to the Texans' defensive front. With Brown's proven ability to disrupt offenses and excel against the run, he could offer the much-needed stability and impact in the middle, fulfilling a critical need for the team.

Entering the final season of his rookie deal worth $11.7 million, the Panthers might trade him for draft capital amid uncertainties about extending his contract amidst rising interior lineman costs.

The 33rd Team sees Brown as a great option for the Texans but still with room for improvement.

"What’s missing from Brown’s arsenal is pass-rush productivity, but that could be on the way," said Dan Pizzuta. "Brown only had two sacks last season but tallied 15 quarterback hits and has put up at least 12 quarterback hits in three of his four seasons."

The Texans might see Brown as a chance to bolster their defensive line with a proven run-stopper while hoping for enhanced pass-rushing skills in the future.