Critics like to say that the NFL stands for "Not For Long." The constant turnover and hard line business side of football typically doesn't leave those involved much security. For that reason, it's not surprising why trade rumors surrounded Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson this offseason.
Johnson, 33, reportedly expressed frustration with the team's decision to enter a rebuilding year, as he saw it, before this season. However, Johnson and the Texans were able to smooth things over and the seven-time Pro Bowler is now in his 12th season with the team. At this point, it doesn't appear as if Johnson is ready to leave Houston anytime soon.
"I don't want to play for nobody else," he said. "I've been here for 12 years. I don't think it would feel right. I've seen everybody cone and go in this locker room... I've seen it all. [My] locker has been here the longest. I can't imagine how it would feel to put on someone else's uniform so hopefully...You always want it to turn out OK. I want things to work out here."
Johnson said that he hopes to play 15 years with the Texans. The emergence of second-year receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who has seemingly surpassed Johnson as the No. 1 target, has done little to dampen his spirits. In fact, Johnson feels empowered by Hopkins' success.
"He's grasped the system and you can tell he loves playing in it. I'm just happy for him. He's come in and worked hard," Johnson said. He even admitted that Hopkins feels "like a kid brother" to him.
Johnson has hauled in 65 catches for 720 yards and two touchdowns this season. Hopkins has 60 receptions for 1,041 yards and six touchdowns.
The duo has paired together to form one of the more talented receiving corps in the league. But if Johnson is serious about playing another few years with the Texans, he may have to restructure a contract that will count for $16.14 million and $14.68 million against the salary cap over the next two years.
