The Texans are expected to begin long-term contract talks with OLB Connor Barwin and LT Duane Brown before the start of the season. This has been in the works since the end of last season, when Barwin emerged as the team's pass rusher while Brown finally played as well as any blindside tackle in the game. Barwin's 9.5 sacks in the second half of the season tied with Jared Allen and Elvis Dumervil for the NFL lead.