The Texans are restructuring left tackle Laremy Tunsil's expensive contract to free up salary cap space, according to multiple media reports.
Tunsil, a two-time Pro Bowler since the Texans trading for him from the Miami Dolphins in 2019, signed a three-year, $66 million contract extension last year with $50 million guaranteed. The contract included a $13 million signing bonus with a $22 million average annual salary.
By converting the bulk of Tunsil's salary this year into a signing bonus, the Texans create about $10.1 million in cap space, allowing the team to pursue more players in free agency.
From the Houston Chronicle's Aaron Wilson:
"Because of this agreement, the Texans are able to account for signing a total of 30 free agents this week, including quarterback Tyrod Taylor on a one-year deal worth up to $12.5 million and punter Cameron Johnston on a three-year, $8 million contract, restricted free agent tenders and re-signings, along with trading for four players, including defensive end Shaq Lawson and offensive tackle Marcus Cannon. Now, general manager Nick Caserio and the Texans’ personnel department have gained additional flexibility to sign additional free agents going forward."
With the Texans rebuilding under a new general manager and head coach, there had been debate on if the team should consider trading Tunsil, especially with Deshaun Watson's trade request looming.
It appears, though, the Texans plan to keep Tunsil for now. They signed veteran free agent quarterback Tyrod Taylor to a one-year deal worth up to $12.5 million and traded for Bengals backup Ryan Finley.
Taylor would be a viable starter next season for the Texans, whether they trade Watson or if he holds out. With Tunsil and right tackle Tytus Howard, the Texans have their bookends for the offensive line.
Remaking the interior line has proven to be a goal this offseason. The Texans released starting center Nick Martin, right guard Zach Fulton, and Senio Kelemete, who started five games at left guard last season.
The Texans signed free agent center Justin Britt to a one-year deal and traded for for Patriots offensive tackle Marcus Cannon, who could possibly move inside to play guard.