Texans 'Best Option' For Free Agent Linebacker Blake Cashman
The Houston Texans have over 30 players set to hit the free agent market later this week, including multiple starters on both sides of the ball.
One area where the Texans will be hit particularly hard will be at the linebacker spot, where both Denzel Perryman and Blake Cashman - who each played key roles on the defense last season - are looking for new deals.
However, with over $60 million in cap space still at their disposal, the Texans will have every chance to bring back one, if not both, of the veteran linebackers.
And from the sounds of things, returning to Houston seems to be the No. 1 priority for Cashman.
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“I’ve made it very clear to the team and my agent that whatever opportunities come my way, Houston is going to have the chance to make an offer or counteroffer to keep me here because I do believe staying here is the best option," Cashman told KPRC 2. "They know me, I know them. What they do well is perfect for what I need. So, I’m not going to make any decisions without going back to Houston first.”
Cashman didn't get his NFL career started in Houston. However, he did play his best football for the Texans, giving him the opportunity to seek a big payday this spring.
Over the last two seasons with Houston, Cashman has played in 30 games, starting 14. And in 2023 he exploded onto the scene with 106 tackles, nine tackles for loss, five QB hits, and two sacks.
He was able to have that career year largely because the Texans viewed him as a three-down linebacker, and deployed him on 57.6 percent of snaps.
And for Cashman, staying in that kind of role with Houston or finding a similar one elsewhere will be the ultimate deciding factor.
“It’s going to come down to what my role is and how much of a priority I am for that team,” Cashman said. “I feel like I’ve proved myself to be a three-down linebacker, whether it’s Mike linebacker or Will. Mike was new to me this year, I want to be able to listen to what opportunities are out there because it’s my first time in this position."
The NFL free agency period opens March 13.
