Eric

Winston

That could winnow his list of suitors considerably, but still only 28 and coming off another big season, it’s not an unachievable goal. He’s set to meet with the Ravens, Rams, Chiefs and Lions after visiting the Dolphins on Wednesday.

Winston’s surgery was a minor scope. “Just got a little clean out, and now I’m fine,” he said. “I just have to get my final release from the doctor, and we’ll be good to go.” Winston was one of the NFL’s premier run-blocking right tackles in Houston. His addition, along with Kevin Boss and Peyton Hillis, all suggest the Chiefs will be running the ball relentlessly in 2012.

The shocking move clears $5.5 million in base salary. Winston hasn’t missed a start since his 2006 rookie season, and has been a key cog in the Texans’ highly productive zone-blocking scheme. Despite the release, Winston won’t have trouble exceeding what the Texans were going to pay him on an incredibly thin offensive tackle market. Only 28 years old, Winston should appeal to other zone-blocking clubs like the Redskins. Pro Football Focus graded Winston as a top-six right tackle last season. He was 11th overall in PFF’s rankings.

The Dolphins have an advantage with Winston’s brother as a regional scout, but don’t expect a quick signing. There are reportedly 10 teams interested in highly-regarded Winston after the Texans surprisingly set him loose.

According to Winston, he will be “medically cleared in two weeks.” The operation shouldn’t be a major stumbling block for a player generating strong interest in free agency following his shocking Monday release. He reportedly has visits lined up with the Dolphins, Rams and Chiefs.

The Miami Herald reported Winston had interest from 10 teams, so it’s no surprise that he’s already setting up multiple visits. According to SI.com’s Peter King, Winston will also have a suitor “that goes deep in the playoffs most years.” Beat writer Aaron Wilson tweets that the Ravens have interest, likely answering King’s report. The Redskins are also reportedly interested.

Winston will then move on to Detroit on Monday if he leaves Kansas City without a contract. FOX Sports’ Alex Marvez believes Winston could be shifted to left tackle if he signs with the Lions.

Financial terms are not yet available. Winston received interest from several teams, and was reportedly looking to become the ''highest paid right tackle’’ in football. He immediately upgrades the Chiefs offensive line, and is set to bookend LT Branden Albert in what projects as a highly-productive run blocking scheme.

Winston was asking for top-five tackle money, so it sounds like the market was unwilling to meet his demands. It’s a relatively low-risk investment for a player who can come in and immediately make an impact. Winston finished as the league’s No. 11 tackle by Pro Football Focus.

Discussions with the Dolphins will continue, but he’s moving on to his scheduled visits with the Ravens, Rams, Chiefs, and Lions. Winston made it clear Wednesday that joining a winning team is high on his list of priorities.