Texans Unlikely To “Break The Bank” Or Franchise CB Kareem Jackson

John McClain of the Houston Chronicle writes that the Texans are unlikely to “break the bank” or use their franchise tag on CB Kareem Jackson to keep him in Houston.

Jackson appears to be in good position to secure a solid contract on the open market in the next few weeks. McClain expects a number of teams to have interest in Jackson and lists cap-rich teams like the Raiders, Jaguars, Titans, Jets, Bengals and Colts as potential options for the cornerback.

McClain adds that if the Texans are unable to retain Jackson, replacing him will become their “top priority” in either free agency or the draft.

Jackson recently mentioned during an interview with SiriusXM NFL Radio that he wouldn’t want to receive the franchise tag, as he’s looking for more stability.

“It is something I would rather not do, I would want to be locked in long term with some stability,” Jackson said, via Scout.com.  “I really haven’t put much thought into being tagged.”

The Texans have been in contact with Jackson’s agent and have said that they would like to get something done.

“Everything sounds good as far as their talks, they say they want to get something done actually before free agency actually starts,” Jackson said.

Jackson, 26, has played out his five-year, $13.52 million rookie contract and is in line to be an unrestricted free agent in the next few weeks.

In 2014, Jackson recorded 57 tackles, three interceptions and nine pass defenses over the course of 13 games. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 11 cornerback out of 108 qualifying players.

We have Jackson listed as the No. 32 player in our Top 75 Free Agents list.