Rick Smith: 'I have no issues with Andre'

Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith weighed in on the absence of star wide receiver Andre Johnson, a development triggered by the Pro Bowl selection's displeasure with his contract situation.

Johnson has five years remaining on his contract.

"Over the first three years of that deal, I think if you even ask him, he's been well compensated," Smith said. "He's got five years left on his deal now. We're willing to sit down and talk with him. He knows that."

It's a voluntary workout that Johnson is skipping.

"Obviously, we want Andre here," Texans coach Gary Kubiak said. "I know he and Rick are talking, so we'll get it worked out. We're not worried about Andre. He'll do his job...I want him here, but he'll do his job."

Last season, Johnson caught 101 passes for 1,569 yards and nine touchdowns.

It was another banner season for him.

The Texans don't seem upset about Johnson not being there.

"Andre Johnson is hugely important to this organization and its success and our ability to go do what we want to do this fall," Smith said. "I have no issues with Andre."

Smith acknowledged that it's unusual for a contract to be addressed with so many remaining years, and it's not their typical policy.

“It is," he said. "You’re exactly right. It’s very difficult. It is, because it’s something that’s not customary. It’s not common. But again, we’ve got a relationship with him and he knows that we’re willing to sit down and talk to him."

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