Written by John McClain at HoustonChronicle.com
The Texans took care of some business Monday morning before directing some attention to Denver quarterback Brock Osweiler when it became permissible to negotiate with prospective free agents from other teams.
The Broncos are furiously trying to re-sign Osweiler, offering him a three-year deal worth $39 million that could be worth as much as $45 million, according to reports in Denver.
Teams could begin negotiating with agents representing free agents from opposing teams at 11 a.m. Monday. No deal can be struck before the fiscal year starts at 3 p.m. Wednesday, when the real free agent frenzy begins.
General manager Rick Smith and vice president Chris Olsen spent the weekend trying to re-sign some of their players. They reached deals Monday morning with four players.
Cornerback Charles James and offensive tackle Jeff Adams signed their contracts.
Punter Shane Lechler and kicker Nick Novak agreed to terms. When they pass physicals, they’ll be official, too.
Negotiations continue with agents for players like right guard Brandon Brooks, center Ben Jones and defensive end Jared Crick.
Meanwhile, teams needing quarterbacks started calling agent Jimmy Sexton, who represents Osweiler.
Multiple holes to fill
The Texans, who were $42 million under the cap before Monday, also are negotiating with agents who represent other free agents. They have a lot of needs on both sides of the ball and would like to fill two or three – like running back – in free agency.
Few, if any, in the NFL believe the Broncos are going to let Osweiler get away. If they do, they’ll be in the same predicament as the Texans – desperate to fill a need at the most important position on the team.
When Peyton Manning retired Monday, the Broncos received an extra $19 million in salary cap space. They’re trying to restructure other contracts because Osweiler, defensive end Malik Jackson and inside linebacker Danny Trevathan are their priority free agents.
To continue reading this article, click here.
