Texans Rumors: Laremy Tunsil Contract Talks Started After DeAndre Hopkins Trade

The Houston Texans have reportedly begun discussing a contract extension with tackle Laremy Tunsil, who is heading into the final year of his rookie deal.

Josina Anderson of ESPN noted the two sides have shared "preliminary proposals" regarding a new multiyear deal. 

The Texans traded two first-round picks for Tunsil last offseason, and he responded with a good-but-not-great 2019. Tunsil was called for 18 penalties and gave up three sacks, good for a 75.8 grade by Pro Football Focus.

The Texans are in a no-win situation here from a leverage perspective. Giving up two firsts for Tunsil essentially allows him to throw a number at Houston and dare the team to match it. While he undoubtedly wants a long-term deal that secures him tens of millions in guarantees, the Texans also cannot afford to let him walk a year from now.

Texans coach Bill O'Brien, to a certain extent, also has to worry about further alienating a fanbase that's seemingly on the edge of a revolt. O'Brien's decision-making since taking over final say on roster decisions has been questionable at best. He's traded away Jadeveon Clowney and DeAndre Hopkins in successive offseasons without returning a single first-round pick.

Tunsil plays a valuable position at left tackle, but O'Brien's trade for him was even an overpay. A 2019 Pro Bowl berth does not overshadow the fact that Tunsil is a good player who doesn't scratch the surface of elite. Given what the Texans gave up for him, though, don't be surprised if Tunsil asks for franchise tackle money in negotiations.