'On the Chopping Block' – Texans Could Trade $20 Million Bust

Texans Could Trade Denico Autry After Disappointing Season

Best Destinations

Los Angeles Chargers

After making the playoffs in what should have been a rebuilding year, the Los Angeles Chargers have their eyes set on the Super Bowl. However, they could use more help along the defensive line. Khalil Mack is still a great player, but Tuli Tuipulotu is better off in a supporting role. A Denico Autry trade probably wouldn’t cost anymore more than a late-round pick, and head coach Jim Harbaugh has a knack for getting the most out of his players.

Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions finished the 2024 season with 37 sacks, the second-lowest in the league. While a healthy Aidan Hutchinson will help, the team must add talent to offset the loss of former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. A Denico Autry trade could give the Lions two above-average pass rushers, as the current Texans edge defender is just one year removed from an 11-sack season with the Tennessee Titans.

Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers had the league’s worst front seven last year, and while they fortified the defensive tackle position with free agent Tershawn Wharton and a healthy Derrick Brown, they could use more help on the edge. Rookies Nic Scourton and Princely Umamielen have potential, but this team could use a veteran to guide these young players. Even if Denico Autry can’t recapture his old form, the Texans pass rusher could be an invaluable resource as a mentor to these young players.

Indianapolis Colts

Would the Houston Texans trade Denico Autry to a division rival? It’s admittedly not too likely, but stranger things have happened. Head coach Shane Steichen needs to put together a winning season to save his job, and boosting the pass rush should be his top priority. After finishing with a league-low 36 sacks last year, Autry should add to this defensive line rotation and improve a unit that desperately needs more juice.