Patriots, Packers among many who may pursue UGA’s Justin Houston

Upon his release from the Kansas City Chiefs, Justin Houston instantly has become one of the most sought after free agents on the market. Houston has over 75 career sacks and has been a consistent pass rushing threat off the edge since his rookie season. Houston should be the former Bulldog to garner the most money on the free agent market this off-season.

Edge pass rushers are essential for NFL defenses to have success. Houston will be a great fit for a number of teams who run a 3-4 defense. Among 3-4 defenses, Houston has a couple of notable connections to both the New England Patriots and the Green Bay Packers:

Earlier this offseason, the Packers hired Justin Houston's position coach. That, combined with the team's need for pass-rush boost, makes Green Bay a natural option for Houston. https://t.co/ZxSCC6PSlW

— Jason B. Hirschhorn (@by_JBH) March 10, 2019

Justin Houston has an excellent relationship with Patriots pass rush coach Joe Kim from their time together in Kansas City. Will be interesting to see if New England takes a look at Houston, especially if Trey Flowers leaves via free agency.

— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 10, 2019

Both teams have needs for a 3-4 edge rushing OLB and have over $20 million in cap space to lure Houston to their respective teams. Additionally, the New York Jets have $90 million in cap space, and run a 3-4 defense, where Houston could team up with former Bulldog Jordan Jenkins at linebacker. The Jets could blow any Packers or Patriots offer out of the water. But if Houston wants to continue playing for Super Bowl contenders, he should consider trying a new colored “G” or teaming up with the plethora of former Dawgs on the Patriot.