'Strong Mutual Interest' Between Texans and Potential Free Agent Jonathan Greenard

Houston Texans edge rusher Jonathan Greenard may be headed to free agency, but that doesn't necessarily make him as good as gone. What's the latest on Greenard?

As the NFL Scouting Combine wraps up, the Houston Texans likely learned a little more about their preferences for their top pick in the NFL Draft.

However, they won’t be short on potential holes to fill. Despite exceeding expectations last season, many contributors are about to hit free agency. Running back Devin Singletary is yet to be re-signed, and starters at every level of the defense are due for a raise.

It is unlikely any Texans player sees a bigger payday than edge rusher Jonathan Greenard this offseason. That doesn’t mean Houston will be the one writing the check.

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Greenard is coming off the best season of his career, leading the team in sacks (12.5), tackles for loss (15), and quarterback hits (22). He broke out at the best time for his future earnings but was also a key piece of the Texans’ defensive front – he’s a player they don’t want to lose.

According to Aaron Wilson, dialogue from both sides suggests an extension is certainly possible.

“#Texans and Jonathan Greenard have a strong mutual interest in extending their working relationship now that his rookie contract has expired,” Wilson tweeted. “And the AFC South champions and their former third-round draft pick remain motivated, hopeful and actively exploring whether a financial compromise can be reached, according to league sources.”

Greenard has been projected for contracts between $16 million and $22 million, which is justified given his strong 2023. However, only having one year of great production could give teams pause.

What may complicate matters is the importance of a legitimate edge threat and how many teams could be interested. Houston may feel he’s worth less than he’s projected, despite its interest, but forced to pay more from other parties upping the ante.

“That doesn't mean that Greenard will necessarily remain with the Texans, but that possibility hasn’t been ruled out by either side,” Wilson continued. “Ultimately, the decision will come down to whether a potential bidding war with other teams makes that possibility financially undesirable for the Texans despite their cache of salary cap space.”

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Houston may prioritize other spots on the defense, like Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, or upgrades in the secondary. But letting Greenard leave for greener pastures means filling that need with an early selection or a separate free-agent endeavor. The Texans would in turn lose out on the familiarity of Greenard and the intangibles he provides.

There isn’t a more important mission for general manager Nick Caserio on the defensive side of the line of scrimmage than ensuring Will Anderson Jr. has a quality running mate.