June 17, 2009

So a friend of mine wanted me to write my next blog on the offensive line, what it means to be an O-Lineman, what it takes, right side compared to left side, etc., but instead I figured I’d save that one and give you guys my thoughts on the current affairs of the Texans. 

Let me start out with everyone’s favorite topic at the moment, OD.  Owen and his agents have been in talks with the Texans for a little bit of time and talks have come to a standstill, thus Owen has become impatient (and rightly so) with the gamesmanship being played. 

Now, I can honestly say I have very little insight on the number being offered and have no idea about the structure as well.  Money is as important as structure.  (Structure meaning: guarantees and when money will actually be paid out.)  Most agents and football aficionados look for guaranteed money and the money being paid out in the first three years of the contract because that is the likely money the player will earn barring a very unlikely event.  All salary money is not guaranteed, so a team could give a player a 5 year, $35 million deal with $5 million guaranteed and $12 million in the first three years and that would NOT be a good deal. A team can cut the player after year 3 and the player really played a 3 year, $12 million deal instead of a 3 year, at least, $21 million deal to keep up with the $7 million a year average.  A great deal would be the same 5 year $35 million dollar deal with $15 million to sign and $24 million in the first 3 years.  That way the team doesn’t have an incentive to get rid of you after year 3 and actually has an incentive to let you play out the contract. 

I hope all that makes sense.

My contract was put together rather quickly.  The Texans had come to my agents, Drew and Jason Rosenhaus, and wanted to discuss a possible extension.  We had started talks during the summer and into camp.  The week leading up to the Steelers game, talks heated up and my agents and Texans General Manager Rick Smith came to an agreement on structure and money and it was thrown to me.  I had the decision of taking it or possibly getting more going into restricted free agency.  I decided that I would be crazy to pass it up and took the deal. 

As I said, I hope Owen and the Texans get to a situation where both sides are happy.  Hope you enjoyed the contract overview. 

Camp is 43 days away I believe, depending on when you are reading this.  July 31 is the first day and I’m excited.  Not for camp, I don’t think anyone is ever excited about that, but for the season to get going and for the chance to show the NFL what we are all about. 

I look forward to turning heads this year!!

I will get to the “Ask Eric”/ mailbag soon.  Maybe next blog.  Also, stay tuned for an interview I will be having with “Ricky Hatton,” it will be something you don’t want to miss!

Eric Winston is the starting right tackle for the Houston Texans. His blog for www.playerpress.com runs at www.ericwinston73.com. Follow him on Twitter as ericwinston.