Texans GM 'absolutely intent' on locking up Hopkins

Whispers that the Houston Texans may be hesitant to sign star wideout DeAndre Hopkins to a big-money deal are news to general manager Rick Smith.

Smith told reporters at the scouting combine that the Texans are motivated to reach a long-term agreement with Hopkins, though it doesn't appear a deal is imminent.

"Our goal is to keep all of our good, young players, and DeAndre is a good, young player," Smith said Thursday, according to Aaron Wilson of The Houston Chronicle. "So, yes, we are absolutely intent on re-signing him. When that happens is up for debate, but he's definitely in our plans. He's an excellent young football player and we certainly want to continue to build around him."

Hopkins has one year left on his rookie deal. He's set to earn $7.915 million next season, but has hinted in the past that he's unhappy with that arrangement.

It's possible the two sides will negotiate an extension before training camp, which would prevent the possibility of Hopkins staging a holdout.