NFL Rumors: Ravens' Patrick Queen, Texans Share 'Some Interest' Ahead of Free Agency

The Houston Texans are regarded as one of the more popular free-agent destinations this offseason, and the team reportedly is being eyed by one of the best defensive players on the open market.

According to ESPN's DJ Bien-Aime, Baltimore Ravens free-agent linebacker Patrick Queen is a potential target for the Texans, and "there's some interest between the two parties."

Bien-Aime noted that the Texans would like to retain linebacker Blake Cashman, who led the team with 106 tackles last season. However, "his cost could be more than what the Texans are willing to spend--especially if no deal is in place before the negotiating period opens." If Houston is unable to hold on to Cashman, the team could turn its attention to Queen.

The Ravens declined the fifth-year option on Queen's rookie contract prior to the 2023 season, and he proceeded to put forth the best year of his career. He finished with a career-high 133 total tackles while adding 3.5 sacks, six passes defended, an interception, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. He was selected to the Pro Bowl for the first time and earned second-team All-Pro honors.

Bien-Aime also pointed out that Queen played alongside Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. at LSU and won a national championship in 2019, so he could be interested in a reunion with his college teammate.

The Texans won the AFC South and made a run to the AFC Divisional Round. Quarterback C.J. Stroud was named Offensive Rookie of the Year and defensive end Will Anderson Jr. was named Defensive Rookie of the Year, so the future is bright in Houston.

With $70 million available in cap space, per Over the Cap, the Texans are in a position to spend big this offseason. Queen would be a major addition to a Houston team that is on the rise.