Former KC Chiefs are still surprisingly free agents
By Matt Conner
Justin Houston
At the very least, Justin Houston knows he’s wanted by the Baltimore Ravens enough to want his negotiating rights if things creep along too slowly in free agency. Still, as reliable and productive as he’s been even into his thirties, he deserves more attention than what he’s getting.
Three years ago, the Chiefs allowed Houston to leave the organization for the first time and former K.C. exec Chris Ballard signed him to a two-year deal early in free agency to join the Indianapolis Colts. Houston at that point was a player coming off of consecutive 9 sack seasons, but it was easy to question how he might fare in a new environment as a 30-year-old. As it turned out, he was just fine.
After Houston rewarded the Colts for their faith in him with 19 sacks and 30 quarterback hits in two seasons, his contract was up. It wasn’t until training camp began last summer that the Ravens came calling with an opportunity to join a team in need of some veteran pass rushing help. Houston had 17 quarterback hits, 4.5 sacks, and a forced fumble in his time with Baltimore, but the ride only lasted a year and now he’s back on the market.
The Ravens have applied a UFA tender here, which means Baltimore will receive a compensatory pick if he signs elsewhere (e.g. the Chiefs with Melvin Ingram). It also gives Baltimore sole rights to negotiate with him once training camp begins. Given the dearth of desirable options in free agency, it shouldn’t surprise anyone if someone comes calling before the Ravens can use those rights and gain plenty of leverage.