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There was some chatter a few days ago that the Houston Texans were going to host free agent tackle Russell Okung on an official visit. Although a segment of Texans fans began dreaming about the possibility of adding Okung to the offensive like, the reports of Okung's impending visit were quickly denied by the Texans.
Whether the Texans were interested in talking with Okung or not doesn't matter anymore, as the free agent has signed with the Denver Broncos.
Broncos officially signed former Seahawks OT Russell Okung.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 17, 2016
That in and of itself isn't particularly newsworthy for Texans fans, but the structure of Okung's new contract qualifies as news for any NFL fan.
Former Seahawks' OT Russell Okung's 5-year contract with the Denver Broncos contains not one dollar of guaranteed money.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 18, 2016
Mile High Report has more details:
Okung signed a one-year deal worth $5 million with a team option at the end of the year for a four-year deal worth $12 million per year with $20.5 million guaranteed.
Okung can earn another $3 million in incentives this season. So he could potentially earn $8 million this season if he meets these incentives.
That's pretty stunning. Signing Okung is not devoid of risk, but it's rather startling that a player of his caliber and youth opted for a deal that provides so little protection. Over The Cap has what looks to be a current list of left tackle contracts, including the guaranteed money on each deal. Putting Okung's new agreement with the Broncos in that context, what do you think of his decision to sign a contract structured in that fashion?