Wide Receiver Andre Johnson Leaving Houston Texans

After twelve long seasons, it looks like wide receiver Andre Johnson’s time in Houston has come to an end. With NFL teams sorting through their rosters these past couple of weeks to figure out which players to keep and which to let go, the Texans have determined that they will part ways with their former first round draft pick. The decision is mutual between the two parties, as Johnson was not happy to find out that the Texans planned to basically demote him next season, having told him that he would have a smaller role on the offense. And with that demotion would inevitably come a pay cut. Upon finding that out, Johnson decided to ask for a trade, and the Texans granted him permission which allows him to look for another team for the time being. If the Texans are unable to work out a trade agreement with another team, he will then be released.

Although Johnson has yet to find a new home, he is already making preparations to leave his city. He posted a video on Instagram for his fans with the caption “Thank you Houston for a wonderful 12 years. And a special thanks to all the fans who have supported me throughout my career.” 

Johnson has achieved great success as a Texan and was considered one of the league’s elite receivers during his prime. However, the team’s former #1 receiver has been on the decline over the past couple of years. Last season, second-year receiver DeAndre Hopkins stole the spotlight, racking up over 1,200 yards and 6 touchdowns as compared to Johnson’s under-1,000 yard season and 3 touchdowns. Although Johnson’s time as a star receiver for the Texans may have expired, his contributions to the team over the past decade cannot be argued.

With Johnson’s strong legacy as a Texan along with his strong ties to the community, it seemed like he was set to stay in Houston for the entirety of his career. But business is business, and at the end of the day, both he and the Texans have to do what’s best for them financially as well as professionally. For Johnson, there will be another team out there who can fulfill both of those things better than the Texans can at this point. It will definitely be interesting to see where he lands.