2:57pm: The Texans have officially released Johnson, signaling the end an era in Houston, reports Adam Schefer of ESPN.com (via Twitter).
9:52am: Unable to find a suitable trade for Andre Johnson, the Texans are expected to release the veteran wide receiver today, reports Dianna Marie Russini of NBC 4 Washington (Twitter links). Johnson’s agent, Kennard McGuire, reportedly asked the team to cut his client last week.
Johnson, who is entering his age-34 season, caught a team-high 85 balls in 2014, but that was his lowest total for a full season in about a decade. The former third overall pick also averaged just 62.4 yards per game, the third-lowest mark of his 12-year career. Houston reportedly asked Johnson to accept a reduced role in the offense going forward, which prompted discussion of a trade, and will end the receiver’s time with the Texans.
If and when Johnson hits the open market, a handful of teams in need of receiving help are expected to have interest. The Raiders, Colts, Eagles, Browns, and Patriots are among the teams I’d consider potential fits, though the longtime Texan could definitely draw interest from other suitors as well.