The Houston Texans are trying to come to terms with offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil on a contract extension, but it appears that there is a gulf between the two sides at the moment.
According to Aaron Wilson of The Houston Chronicle, the Texans have offered Tunsil a deal worth $18.5 million a year, which is not exactly in the left tackle's wheelhouse. Apparently, Tunsil has made a counteroffer that is “significantly higher” than what Houston put on the table.
The Texans' offer would make Tunsil the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL, surpassing Philadelphia Eagles tackle Lane Johnson, who is earning $18 million annually.
Even with that distinction, Tunsil seems to be looking for more.
The 25-year-old has one year remaining on his current deal and is scheduled to earn $$10.35 million in 2020.
Tunsil, who played his collegiate football at the University of Mississippi, was originally selected by the Miami Dolphins in the first round (13th pick overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft.
He spent the first three years of his career with the Dolphins, establishing himself as one of the best offensive tackles in the league.
Then, just before the 2019 campaign began, Miami traded Tunsil to the Texans in a blockbuster deal.
Tunsil started 14 games for Houston this past season, making his first Pro Bowl appearance.
The Texans have long had one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL, which has resulted in quarterback Deshaun Watson taking more hits than necessary. For that reason, Houston may just end up caving in to Tunsil, who is, by far, the best offensive lineman on the roster.
Either that, or the two parties will eventually find common ground somewhere in the middle.
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