Moving Justin Houston…Should Chiefs consider the unthinkable?
By John McCarty
Sep 14, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Justin Houston (50) during the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
I will premise this piece by stating this isn’t about what the Kansas City Chiefs should do, but simply exploring possibilities and options to what is currently an unresolved issue. While there is a common belief a deal will be completed between the Chiefs and outside linebacker Justin Houston, there was a common belief the Chiefs would reach a deal with Jared Allen. Obviously a different front office, but the point still stands.
Though not totally fueled by money and cap space, Houston should and will receive a massive contract. This is nothing new and is somewhat obvious. However, this point can not be ignored. In the league, teams can’t simply pay everyone. Sometimes, it’s best for a team to move an expensive and valuable asset with the goal of netting multiple valuable assets. Look back at the Allen trade with the Minnesota Vikings.
Did the Chiefs move a valuable piece of their defense and a good football player? Yes, they did. However, in return, they landed the draft picks that turned into Branden Albert and Jamaal Charles. Albert was a solid, fringe-Pro Bowl left tackle for many years while in Kansas City, and Charles will likely have his number retired and be a member of the Chiefs Hall of Fame.
Kansas City and Houston are rapidly approaching the deadline for negotiating an extension, as July 15th is the looming date before both sides have to move on with a franchise tag being the binding one-year agreement. Past that date, teams can not negotiate with a player until the season ends. Michael Ginnitti of Spotrac.com predicted Houston’s contract will be six years and $92,670,276 with $48,976,579 guaranteed.
Another aspect of a trade lies with the Chiefs price tag and/or willingness to deal Houston. Obviously, all things being equal, Kansas City would love to keep Houston. If that can’t happen, what would the Chiefs take in return for Houston? If this comes to pass, what teams could be fits? Lets look at a couple.
Next: Teams to make a move for Houston...