Texans didn’t offer DE Jonathan Greenard a contract in free agency

The Houston Texans always planned to move on from Jonathan Greenard.

At least, that’s what the defensive end told KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson after he signed a four-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings on the first day of free agency.

“To my knowledge, there wasn’t an official offer from the Texans,” Greenard told Wilson. “There was minimal conversation and we’ve all moved on. No hard feelings.”

Jonathan Greenard now with #VIkings on four-year, $76 million deal, on #Texans: ‘To my knowledge, there wasn’t an official offer from the Texans. There was minimal conversation and we’ve all moved on. No hard feelings’ @KPRC2

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 15, 2024

The Texans drafted Greenard, 26, in the third round of the 2020 draft out of Florida. After some up-and-down and injured years, Greenard broke out with a career-high and team-high 12.5 sacks in 2023. He and Will Anderson Jr. were a great pair on the defensive line ends.

“The McNairs did so much for my family. I could never repay them,” Greenard added. “They reached out to me even after everything was over. It was great and it let me know how appreciate they were of me. They’re really good people.

“I didn’t have any conversations at all with Nick or DeMeco throughout the process. I had an idea throughout the season this could possibly be my last season there just because of the vibes. It wasn’t up to me.”

Houston replaced Greenard quickly, too, with the signings of Danielle Hunter during the first week of free agency.

Greenard posted a heartfelt farewell message on Instagram following the official signing with Minnesota. He added that he’s “excited for a fresh start” with the Vikings. He’ll had a familiar face around, too, when Minnesota signed former Texans linebacker Blake Cashman soon after Greenard.

#Vikings defensive end Jonathan Greenard: ‘It’s a blessing and I’m thankful to be considered one of the guys in that category. I’m thankful for how it played out. I’m excited for a fresh start and a great place. Minnesota is a great place with great facilities.’ @KPRC2

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 15, 2024

Houston will see Greenard and Cashman again in 2024. The Vikings will host the Texans at some point this next season when Houston plays the rest of the NFC North. The Texans also traded their No. 23 pick to the Vikings on Friday.