Former Texans second-round pick safety Jalen Pitre is on the trade block this NFL Draft and the team could move on very quickly. According to Pro Football Focus, the source believes the Houston Texans could trade Pitre since he’s entering the final year of his contract and has yet to offer him a new extension. Originally selected in the 2022 NFL Draft, the former Baylor product began his journey hoping to be a starter for the team following the departure of star Justin Reid. Former head coach Lovie Smith gave him the starting position to begin his rookie year alongside strong safety Jonathan Owens, recording 99 solo tackles, one sack, five interceptions and eight passes defensed.
Pitre dealt with some injuries in his sophomore campaign, later, he helped the team reach the divisional round of the postseason, but they lost in a blowout against the Baltimore Ravens. Pitre got better last year until the Texans were forced to put him on the season-ending injured reserve for tearing his pectoral muscle. He could have earned himself a new contract, but it looks like the Texans are heading in another direction. The safety still has a lot of upside as a key contributor, but after trading for C.J. Gardner-Johnson, it seems that the Texans are going to rebuild their secondary, depending on what general manager Nick Caserio does.
Breaking: Texans Former Second Rounder Jalen Pitre On Trade Block During NFL Draft – 4 Suitors Emerge
Potential Destinations
Baltimore Ravens
Pitre could be a reliable player in a service role, even though the Baltimore Ravens will have to figure out if he will fit the bill beyond 2025. However, this puts the Ravens in a good position to trade for him since he’ll likely stay with the team for one year, being that he’s still on a rookie deal. Kyle Hamilton is one of the best safeties, but the organization did say they will draft a new safety this year to help Ar’Darius Washington, who took over for Marcus Williams and increased the production of this secondary unit.
Despite that, the Ravens should get Pitre either way as a rotational safety.
Kansas City Chiefs
After losing Justin Reid this offseason to the Saints, the Chiefs haven’t done much to address the secondary department. Mike Edwards might be returning, but he’s way past his prime, and he’s only a temporary fit. With that, they might be better off getting Pitre, who provides long-term stability alongside Bryan Cook. Pitre could earn a starting role, especially when Jaylen Watson could be on the trade block himself too.
Los Angeles Chargers
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers’ secondary unit will look dramatically different. While the future is bright for this team, the Chargers didn’t do much to mortgage the defense. Despite that, they should invest in Pitre after losing Kristian Fulton. Pitre could be an elusive trade piece for when Alohi Gilman can’t perform up to standards or goes down with yet another injury.
Washington Commanders
This wouldn’t be the first time the Commanders and Texans exchanged a trade this offseason. After getting Laremy Tunsil, they could inquire about the availability of Pitre. Quan Martin has a bright spot on this roster, but it’s never a bad idea to strengthen this secondary unit.
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