Dale Robertson

@sportywineguy

Duane Brown is semi-officially a holdout (OTAs are “voluntary”). He’s due to make $9.65m in ’17. In ‘16, 14 O-linemen made at least $10m. None of Brown’s income going forward is guaranteed and maybe that’s what he’s trying to fix, as opposed to demanding a giant numerical raise. Beginning his 10th season, Brown may not be an All-Pro talent anymore, but he’s a leader both in the huddle and the community, and he certainly remains one of the NFL’s top tackles. Also, he’s got leverage, given the uncertain state of the Texans’ offensive line. Some argue that his political stance last season, which included a raised fist during a national anthem, makes him damaged goods. Considering what our pesky First Amendment says, of course, that’s nonsense. With plenty of cap room, this isn’t a fight the Texans should pick because the locker room will have Brown’s back.