Mario Williams Wants To Stay In Houston But More Money Beckons
Mario Williams continues appeasing Houston with his comments as unrestricted free agency approaches but dollar for dollar, the Texans can’t offer him market value.
Were the team to franchise the #1 overall pick from 2006, he would cost $22.9 million against the salary cap. And that would put Houston beyond their threshold. So if Williams is to remain a Texan, he’ll have to accept a team-friendly deal.
Perhaps he’s interested in a pair of longhorns on the front of his burnt orange lamborghini?
Prior to his pectoral injury last season, Super Mario had already racked up five sacks and appeared comfortable in his new role as a pass-rushing outside linebacker.
He adapted to the 3-4 scheme as well as a move from defensive end and had another Pro Bowl selection in his future.
It was Wade Phillips instilling a previously unseen toughness in the Texans defense that propelled them to an AFC South championship and a win in the first playoff game in franchise history.
And while Williams keeps insisting that he’s loved his time in the Bayou City, the truth is that free agency means another mega-contract.
Any number of teams would be more than willing to give the former N.C. State standout the money he desires because he possesses a skill set that’s valued on par with offensive tackles and quarterbacks.
His ability to get to the passer makes him admirable for considering a hometown discount but probably not savvy in the eyes of his agent.
A beneficiary of a rookie deal that totaled $54 million, there’s something to be said of playing on a team slated for sustained success rather than chasing additional dollars.
It’s an enticing sale by Rick Smith and Gary Kubiak, offering a chance at winning the AFC.
But too many athletes find solace in more zeroes in their bank accounts and Williams will have to buck that trend.
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