Report: Texans give WR Andre Johnson permission to seek trade

The Houston Texans have given receiver Andre Johnson permission to seek a trade, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports.

According to McClain, the Texans told Johnson that his role on the team would be reduced next season, and the receiver asked to be traded or cut instead.

Johnson is scheduled to make $11.5 million in 2015.

The 33-year-old was the No. 3 pick in the 2003 draft by the Texans. Johnson is currently ninth in NFL history with 1,012 catches. He has 13,597 receiving yards and 64 touchdowns. 

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From the Houston Chronicle:

If a trade can’t be worked out, Johnson will be cut and free to negotiate with any team. The Texans will save $8.825 million against the cap if Johnson is traded or cut, placing them $21.9 million under the cap.

Last year, Johnson missed the offseason program because the Texans wouldn’t guarantee his contract in 2015. He was concerned about being cut because his cap figure was so high.

In 15 games last season, Johnson had 85 receptions for 936 yards and three touchdowns.

As SI previously discussed back in July, some teams that could be interested in Johnson might include the Browns and Chiefs. 

- Sarah Barshop