The Houston Texans are reportedly unlikely to use the franchise tag this offseason, which means cornerback A.J. Bouye will hit the open market come March 9, unless a long-term contract extension can be reached before then.
In the opinion of teammate Quintin Demps - who snagged a career-high six interceptions partly because of the stellar play by the star corner - the Texans need to open their checkbook and lock up Bouye.
"I think he's in a good position, a great place," Demps said, according to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle. "I don't think he's dealing with anything negative, I'm sure it's all positive. I'm sure he's excited. I think he worked his butt off for it, so pay the man."
However, with the franchise tag off the table, it makes sense for the 25-year-old to test the market following a breakout season.
Fellow cornerback Janoris Jenkins received a five-year contract that averages $12.5 million per year last offseason, so Bouye should command a similar deal, and could exceed it if a bidding war starts.
With the Texans holding only $25 million in cap space, they could quickly be priced out of contention for Bouye's services once free agency starts.