NFL Notes: Joe Thomas, Broncos, Colts, Raiders, & Texans

Joe Thomas

• According to Mike Klis, the Broncos and Browns agreed upon Cleveland receiving a first-round pick for 2017 in return for OT Joe Thomas. However, a high-round pick swap for 2016 broke the deal apart.

Broncos

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk believes that the Broncos interest in trading for LT Joe Thomas does not bode well for injured LT Ryan Clady‘s long-term security with the team.

Florio reasons Clady becomes expendable since OT Ty Sambrailo could step into the starting role in 2016 once he is recovered from his season-ending shoulder injury.

Furthermore, Florio mentions Clady’s health concerns and large contract as added reasons to replace him.

Clady, 29, signed a five-year, $52.5 million contract in 2013, which contained $33 million guaranteed, a $3 million signing bonus, and another $5 million through performance based incentives.

Clady is set to have a base salary of $9.5 million in 2016 and $10 million the following year.

Colts

• Jason La Canfora reports that Pep Hamilton being released from the team was “expected” by the team’s Week 10 bye, due to Andrew Luck‘s apparent regression.
• Canfora adds that QB coach Clyde Christiansen could replace Chuck Pagano as head coach if the Colts take another loss.

Raiders

• HC Jack Del Rio said the Raiders were never in any “serious” trade discussions prior to the deadline, per Alex Marvez.

Texans

• According to Aaron Wilson, TE Ryan Griffin is scheduled to return to practice next week without restrictions, though he will remain on the designated to return injured reserve with a MCL sprain.
• Once Griffin returns to practice, the Texans will have 21 days to activate him to the 53-man roster.