Houston Texans To Make Andre Johnson the Highest Paid Receiver

The Houston Texans 2010 training camp might be one of the quietest sites in the month of August for all NFL teams, but that doesn't mean they aren't working.

With hopes of making their first playoff appearance in the short history of the team, quarterback Matt Schaub looks to lead this young team to the post season.

But he can't do it alone.

Success in 2010 will be a challenge, as Houston faces one of the toughest schedules in the league. And receiver Andre Johnson, who has been one of the top wide outs in football, needs to show up this season.

There were questions surrounding his motivation of giving a full effort as camp began. Having lobbied for a new contract, Johnson laid on the down low, not getting too excited until something was done about his contract. If you remember, Johnson did threaten to hold out for a new contract.

But unlike corner back Darrelle Revis, Johnson was patient and confident that a deal would get done. Most importantly, he loves the situation he is in and wouldn't want to create any tension between him and the owner.

Fortunately for him, he is going to get what he wants.

According to multiple reports, a deal is almost complete that will make Andre Johnson the highest-paid receiver in the league.

Though I like to see guys play out their contracts, I understand Andre's situation. Take Wes Welker for example. One simple turn in the final game of the regular season resulted in offseason surgery, and as of now, brings questions as to whether or not he can ever be the same.

Johnson has proven for quite a few seasons that he is the franchise player. He's helped Matt Schaub grow as a quarterback, and most importantly, he's created a spark for this franchise, giving people a reason to come out every Sunday to see this team perform.

Though my predictions don't come until later in the month, I feel Houston is a playoff-caliber team that is making improvements on both sides of the ball.

For Mr. Johnson and the Houston Texans' sake, I hope the deal ends in a positive way for both sides.

No. 80 is one of my favorite players to watch on Sundays, and I hope it continues to stay that way. Money comes with responsibility, and we will find out this year if Andre will continue to perform like the Larry Fitzgeralds of the world.

Fans are calling the Texans their sleeper pick in the AFC. Well, in the end, it will fall in the hands of Andre Johnson, who needs to continue to give full effort and make his mark as the best receiver in the game.

Matt Miselis is an NFL Featured Columnist for BleacherReport.com.

Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/MattMiselis