After days of speculation, the Texans have parted ways with the face of their franchise.
Veteran wide receiver Andre Johnson, the longest-tenured player in Texans history, was released by the team on Monday.
"After exhausting all options of a possible trade, we informed Andre Johnson that he would be released today,” said general manager Rick Smith. “No player in the history of this franchise has represented the team, city and community in a more professional way. Andre is a Hall of Fame caliber player and we appreciate his years of service and contributions to our team.”
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Texans officially released WR Andre Johnson.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2015The 33-year-old holds every career receiving record for the franchise, which selected him third overall in the 2002 NFL Draft out of Miami. Johnson, a seven-time Pro Bowl selection, has caught 1,012 passes for 13,547 yards and 64 touchdowns in his career, including 83 catches for 936 yards and three touchdowns last season.
Despite all of his individual success, Houston has played in just two playoff games during Johnson's 12 season. Last week the team gave Johnson permission to seek a trade after he reportedly asked for a release.