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Texans 2015 Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

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Texans Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

The Phase Three rules set forth in Article 21, Section 2(b)(iii) of this Agreement shall apply to all minicamp activities. Two-a-day practices shall be permitted at two of the three practice days of the Club's one mandatory minicamp, subject to the following rules:

(i) players may be on the field for a total of no more than three and one-half hours per day;

(ii) players may participate in one practice for no more than two and one-half hours of on-field activities under Phase Three rules;

(iii) the second practice may only be for the remaining portion of the players' daily three and one-half hour on-field activities and shall be limited to walk-through instruction only;

(iv) no organized team activities (including treatment and taping) may begin prior to 7:00am local time or end after 8:30pm local time, and players
shall be given at least one hour for lunch and dinner each;

(v) players may only be asked to participate in Club activities for a maximum of ten hours per day including taping and treatment but excluding meal time. The on-field time limits described above shall begin as soon as position coaches begin to coach players on the field.​


No pads. Texans have had 100% participation in the prior voluntary offseason program.

May be delayed due to weather.
 
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SOTT -- TEXANS MAILBAG: WRAPPING UP HOUSTON TEXANS OTAS

We take a closer look at the Houston Texans coming out of OTAs from some reader's questions.

@SOTTexans Travis Labhart any chances for him??

— Fernando Orellana (@fherz24) June 14, 2015​

Travis Labhart’s future with the team is tied to the wide receivers in front of him currently. There is no doubt he is much stronger and faster than he was last season when he came out of Texas A&M. With that said, Labhart’s ceiling is still the practice squad. Something will have to occur with receivers in front of him in order for Labhart to slide up onto the 53-man roster.


@SOTTexans will we see the return of the old Brian Cushing this year?

— Matt Harber (@Harber_Matt) June 14, 2015​

Early indications look good for Brian Cushing. He has deemed himself 98-99% healthy and this has been the first time since the start of 2012 in which he has trained for an upcoming season. The majority of his offseason work during the past two years has been concentrated on trying to get his knee back in shape.

The final two games of last season Cushing looked the best he had all year. Adding those games to the start of OTAs, all signs indicate a real bounce back for the upcoming season.


@SOTTexans Bonner still alive? What about Jamison? What old lunch pail Texan still has a chance to make the team?

— Casey Johnson (@PCaseyJohnson) June 14, 2015​

Starting with Tim Jamison, he is a free agent and the Texans elected to go younger at the sub-package rusher position that he played.

As for Alan Bonner, he is still working to get back on the field. He had his rookie season derailed with a hamstring injury, last season he was out with a broken foot, and he, like many others coming off injuries from last season, are being held out until completely healthy. Where he factors in is yet to be seen but he will have to be flawless when he finally hits the field in order to make the final cut.
A member from the old regime who has an outside shot of making the roster, my early thought has to beKeshawn Martin. The reasons are simple, he can return punts and kicks and, most importantly, he plays both inside and outside receiver. With possibly four spots in the receiver group looking like they could be locked up, the fifth spot will be interesting. Injuries and uncertainty surround the final spot of the roster so Martin could find himself back on the final 53 due to his ability to contribute in so many different ways.


@SOTTexans biggest surprise/disappointments so far

— Chris (@ChrisOtto87) June 14, 2015​

Our biggest surprise right now has to be second year player Andre Hal. Originally drafted as a cornerback, Hal has made the jump to safety and the initial returns look good. Pads will ultimately set things apart, but don’t count him out for being an important piece of the defense at this rate.

It is still early but it happens every season: a rookie has high expectations but finds getting acclimated to the NFL to be too much early in the process. Jaelen Strong’s start to his rookie career has been slowed down by trying to get into NFL shape. It is tough to see what he can do on the field and with an early set back on the first day of OTAs, Strong ending up missing all of the practices. Getting Strong ready for training camp is the key and he will have close to a month to get healthy.


@SOTTexans is su a filo ready to step up to be a starter? How'd he look?

— Jonathan Vahalik (@jjvahalik50) June 14, 2015​

One thing that stands out is the amount of work Xavier Su’a-Filo put in during the offseason. He has reshaped his body and looks nothing like his rookie self. Plugged in at left guard, it will be his position to lose and it should be, with the Texans spending a second round pick on him in last year’s draft. He was a solid run blocker his rookie season but struggled in pass protection. Training camp will help answer how much he really has progressed as a player.


@SOTTexans what role do you think Kevin Johnson will have? Will he beat JJ or Reem for a starting job or come off the bench?

— Björn Jonasson (@JonassonBjrn) June 14, 2015​

It will be interesting to see what the defense will do with Johnson when the season arrives. With both Kareem Jackson and Johnathan Joseph back as starters, Johnson will have to prove he is a better choice than A.J. Bouye and Darryl Morris for the third cornerback spot in nickel and dime sets.

His skill set is not the issue and there is an overall thought that the team’s first round selection will be starting from day one. Last season was a clear indication of this regime’s mindset regarding the issue when Jadeveon Clowney started over Whitney Mercilus as the season started. This situation could be not much different, with Johnson being a first round selection.


@SOTTexans How has Mercilus looked? For a guy who just got an extension it feels like there's been very little news, good OR bad.

— Brian Strand (@bhsman89) June 14, 2015​

This is normal OTAs discussion. Front seven players on defense and offensive linemen get little talk because of the lack of contact. Mercilus has been at every practice and has been penciled in as the starting SAM linebacker. Like the majority of the veterans, maintaining and putting in solid work is what they need to do. Mercilus has done just that.


@SOTTexans What's the weakest link on both offense and defense?

— Lyds (@hayscountyHT) June 14, 2015​

For the offense, the lack of bonafide playmakers besides DeAndre Hopkins andArian Foster is the potential weak link of the team. The Texans offense needs playmakers to emerge over the next few months to balance out the offense.

As for the defense, the safety position is the biggest concern. The defense appears to be solid in terms of front line starters and depth, but besides Rahim Moore, the safety position is anything but that. The starter next to Moore could be Stevie Brown or Andre Hal, but this is a long way from being sorted out.​
 
Here's my OTA wrapup as promised last week:

What fans and fantasy football people want to know after Texans OTAs

Excerpt (Please go to original sources if you want to read entire articles because that is the best way to ensure that you can still get outsiders covering practices. Thanks!) :

Quarterback:

1. I know that there are a lot of people who think it is the end of the world if Brian Hoyer gets picked as the Texans starter this year over Ryan Mallett for a variety of reasons. I’m assuming most of those people do not attend practice.

2. Some years it is obvious who the starter should be in a competition as early as OTAs. I don’t think it is that sort of year for the Texans. Last year early, the Texans had four quarterbacks who didn’t know the system. One was chosen early in the offseason as the starter by the Texans for his smarts, experience and availability, one was drafted for development, and then the two other guys weren’t really good fits for trying to run the offense. None of the Texans quarterbacks looked good in the offseason last year.

In 2015, there are two quarterbacks who know the system, and the developmental drafted guy. The two quarterbacks who know the system, for better or worse, do not look substantially different in running the offense during OTAs. They have good and bad sessions, neither look particularly accurate or distinguished themselves significantly during observed OTAs.

3. There are some people in the media that feel strongly that Hoyer or Mallett look better in the limited sessions that media members see. That they see a difference in accuracy between the players. I do not see that specifically, and I’m not there yet.

4. In general, this year’s quarterbacks in OTAs look better than last year’s, so we have that going for us, which is nice. I am trying to say something positive about Texans quarterbacks in item number 4. I’m being a bit snide, but this is actually a pretty important thing that I think is ignored by some analysts. If the Texans can run their actual offense the way it is supposed to be run, it won’t be miserable watching it and they will have a greater likelihood of beating more dynamic opponents.

5. Just based on observations from dealings with the media, Hoyer gives more thoughtful, less robotic answers than Ryan Mallett, but this is football and not a debating society. Neither really reveal anything of substance. I’m mentioning this if it ends up being that O’Brien has more trust in the brain space of Hoyer. Mallett seems to be aware of this view of him, and is quick to mention that his football awareness is one of his strengths. (Will be curious to see how much of their personalities we can see during HBO’s Hard Knocks, if behind the scenes they are allowed to be less robot like).

6. I’m not sure that “the answer” is on the roster at quarterback. Would be handy if he were because the offense is so complex and puts a lot on the quarterback. Can they develop that guy from scratch? I don’t know.
 
Texans_Chick said:
6. I’m not sure that “the answer” is on the roster at quarterback.
Click to expand...
This is my greatest fear. Two seasons into the O'Brien era, and no QB. I really like the guy as a coach. But, he shouldn't get 6 years to turn this team into a contender. And that's what it would take if O'Brien has to get another rookie to develop in 2016.

This is why I'm all in on Mallett. He's the only one I can envision becoming a plus QB. And that's only with my Battle Red glasses on.
 
Lucky said:
This is my greatest fear. Two seasons into the O'Brien era, and no QB. I really like the guy as a coach. But, he shouldn't get 6 years to turn this team into a contender. And that's what it would take if O'Brien has to get another rookie to develop in 2016.

This is why I'm all in on Mallett. He's the only one I can envision becoming a plus QB. And that's only with my Battle Red glasses on.
Click to expand...
I see 3 QB's and you see none, but we'll have to wait and see.
 
Lucky said:
This is my greatest fear. Two seasons into the O'Brien era, and no QB. I really like the guy as a coach. But, he shouldn't get 6 years to turn this team into a contender. And that's what it would take if O'Brien has to get another rookie to develop in 2016.

This is why I'm all in on Mallett. He's the only one I can envision becoming a plus QB. And that's only with my Battle Red glasses on.
Click to expand...

Why? Kubiak got 8 yrs. BOB will probably get the same.

This is why if the QB's don't produce I expect the Texans pick to be Hackenberg who already knows the offense.
 
All I know is that we had to hope every game last year that Fitz didn't make too many mistakes, throw too many INTs, have too many three and outs, etc. We needed to go into this season with QBs that could be counted on to run the offense if nothing better came along. The likelihood of getting the mysterious "franchise" QB was never a likely outcome. We probably have as good a QB set in place as we should have expected. I think the focus on defense in the offseason is specifically addressing that issue. If this defense can start in the top ten overall and finish in the top 5, then the offense is probably good enough if they are 15th or better. The higher their rank beyond that, the better we get.
 
Playoffs said:

SOTT -- TEXANS MAILBAG: WRAPPING UP HOUSTON TEXANS OTAS

@SOTTexans is su a filo ready to step up to be a starter? How'd he look?

— Jonathan Vahalik (@jjvahalik50) June 14, 2015​
One thing that stands out is the amount of work Xavier Su’a-Filo put in during the offseason. He has reshaped his body and looks nothing like his rookie self. Plugged in at left guard, it will be his position to lose and it should be, with the Texans spending a second round pick on him in last year’s draft. He was a solid run blocker his rookie season but struggled in pass protection. Training camp will help answer how much he really has progressed as a player.

​
Click to expand...
​


491468659.jpg
 
Lucky said:
This is my greatest fear. Two seasons into the O'Brien era, and no QB. I really like the guy as a coach. But, he shouldn't get 6 years to turn this team into a contender. And that's what it would take if O'Brien has to get another rookie to develop in 2016.

This is why I'm all in on Mallett. He's the only one I can envision becoming a plus QB. And that's only with my Battle Red glasses on.
Click to expand...

I don't know about six years. I think we're doing it like the Seahawks & the Ravens. Putting all the pieces in place, then when we can, just add QB.

I like this approach. Get someone who can play the position & move forward as a team. As opposed to the way others have tried it.... the Jets, the Jags, even Washington, where the fate of their franchise is riding on a twenty something kid who doesn't know how to play the game. Sure, you might get lighting in a bottle, but once that's gone (RGIII) you're back to square one.

Hopefully we'll find our guy (if he's not already on the roster) soon, maybe the next Flacco at 18, or BigBen at 11, or Rodgers at 24. Or if the team is good enough, it'll allow Savage to turn into the next Wilson, Brady, or Romo.
 
thunderkyss said:
Hopefully we'll find our guy (if he's not already on the roster) soon, maybe the next Flacco at 18, or BigBen at 11, or Rodgers at 24. Or if the team is good enough, it'll allow Savage to turn into the next Wilson, Brady, or Romo.
Click to expand...

I haven't given up on Savage. I know some people have based upon that game last year when he came in not ready to play. But to me, that's a rookie mulligan that I can forget.
 
steelbtexan said:
This is why if the QB's don't produce I expect the Texans pick to be Hackenberg who already knows the offense.
Click to expand...

A little bit of familiarity should not be a sign I can't factor. And by little I mean very little. They aren't running close to the full system in college ...for his one year.

Marcus said:
I haven't given up on Savage. I know some people have based upon that game last year when he came in not ready to play. But to me, that's a rookie mulligan that I can forget.
Click to expand...

I don't hold his one game against him at all. But the fact is (article was provided a few months back) that finding a QB after the 3rd is about as likely as finding a diamond in a goat's butt.
 
infantrycak said:
I don't hold his one game against him at all. But the fact is (article was provided a few months back) that finding a QB after the 3rd is about as likely as finding a diamond in a goat's butt.
Click to expand...

Can't argue with that, not when we have years of data to support it.

However, I think the coach setting reasonable expectations & preparing his QB to meet those expectations is a lost art that guys like Kubiak & what little bit we've seen of OB are keeping alive. That said, there's little reason to believe OB will not be able to make good use of Hoyer & Mallett over the next two years & Savage's 15 minutes may be over, never having seen the field.
 
infantrycak said:
A little bit of familiarity should not be a sign I can't factor. And by little I mean very little. They aren't running close to the full system in college ...for his one year.



I don't hold his one game against him at all. But the fact is (article was provided a few months back) that finding a QB after the 3rd is about as likely as finding a diamond in a goat's butt.
Click to expand...

Yep. But because one or two diamonds have been found, everyone puts on latex gloves and thinks they are a precious gem proctologist.

If Savage turns into something, it is just pure bonus. If he plays this next season, it's because something has gone really wrong.
 
It's kinda like playing a pair of jacks. You think you might have the best hand... play it up & try to sell it to everyone at the table
 
sandman said:
If Savage turns into something, it is just pure bonus. If he plays this next season, it's because something has gone really wrong.
Click to expand...

Gone really wrong like in the QBs going down with injuries? Yeah, I'll put some money down that Savage starts a couple of games this year.

I know that talking about how future injuries might effect the team during the offseason is taboo around here, but I could give a ****.
 
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Brian T. Smith ‏@ChronBrianSmith

O'Brien said Strong "has a long way to go" but it was good to see him back today. Recovering from hamstring injury. #Texans

O'Brien looking for "most consistent guy" in naming #Texans' starting QB. #NFL

O'Brien said team mixed players today. Wouldn't read too much into which players ran with 1s, 2s. #Texans "very confident" in both QBs.

Hopkins still on side. Clowney worked out in rain. #Texans

High energy practice by #Texans inside bubble. Step up from OTAs, with first team offense taking on No. 1 defense in full-field action.

Cecil Shorts stood out. Several highlight-worthy catches. #Texans

Brian Hoyer ran 1s today. Best practice to date. Much sharper and more in control. Mallett also more accurate. #Texans​

John McClain ‏@McClain_on_NFL

O'Brien on minicamp compared to OTA "More 11 on 11, putting them in a lot of situations."

O'Brien on OLB "John Simon has had a consistent spring. He's done very well, worked very hard.".

O'Brien "Certain determinations can't be made cause you're not in pads. The pass game is worked much more than running game cause not n pads"

O'Brien "We're on schedule to have a normal day tomorrow, but I told the players to be on alert cause of the weather."

O'Brien on weather adjustments "When looked at radar I told players to be on alert, so we moved up practice and they're on their way home."

O'Brien on QBs "We feel confident in both guys. They've done a really good job. We've thrown a lot of situations at them."

Injuries have given veteran WR Keshawn Martin a lot of chances in OTAs and minicamp. He's taken advantage of them.

Slot WR Damaris Johnson continues to perform well. Every time I look up he's catching a pass or a TD pass. He's been very consistent.

Hoyer is smooth, smart and accurate. Looks like he's been in this system for years. Has a nice touch on all throws. Looked good today.

Brian Hoyer is such a nautral in the system implemented by coach Bill O'Brien and OC George Godsey. QB gets a lot of freedom at the line.

I've been saying for 2 weeks and I'll say it again: I believe Brian Hoyer will be Texans' starting QB when they open against Kansas City.​

PDS ‏@PatDStat

If today repeats itself through mini-camp and the start of training camp, Brian Hoyer will be named the starter. #Texans

O’Brien’s potential returners. He names….

Martin, Worthy, Mumphery, Damaris Johnson and Shorts.​
​
Washington and Shorts speaking highly of the veteran wide receivers and being able to pick up the offense. #Texans

“Jaelen has a long way to go.” Bill O’Brien mentions it was a hammy pull for Strong. #Texans

O’Brien still feels that there is not enough both the QBs can do to separate themselves to be named the starter. #Texans

Mentioned Shorts earlier, but he was solid today. He stood out from the receivers. #Texans

Hoyer has a much better feel for throwing the football. His touch is better than Mallett’s, today was pretty clear. #Texans

Chandler Worthy was able to open up on the field today. His stop and start acceleration is impressive. Walking away from defenders. #Texans

Ryan Griffin has a solid day catching the ball. Garrett Graham also was solid in the red zone. #Texans

Jaelen Strong returned to the field today. Was moving well and showing no setbacks from a hammy issue. #Texans

Best Brian Hoyer had looked from all the workouts. Was pretty solid all practice throwing the football. #Texans

Offensive show in the bubble today. Cecil Shorts making some tough catches today in redzone work. #Texans​

Tania Ganguli ‏@taniaganguli

O'Brien says Chandler Worthy has a long way to go in return game, but that he's a hard worker. Is often here on weekends working. #Texans

Bill O'Brien lists Keshawn Martin, Chandler Worthy, Keith Mumphery, Damaris Johnson, Cecil Shorts as potential returners. #Texans

"Cecil has done a good job along with Nate Washington," O'Brien says. Says both have studied the offense well. #Texans

"Jaelen's got a long way to go so it was good to see him out there today," Bill O'Brien says. #Texans

Asked about John Simon, O'Brien says he's been consistent. Worked a lot here in the offseason. Says Whitney Mercilus has, too. #Texans

O'Brien says the #Texans are planning to have a normal schedule tomorrow, after altering today's schedule for the storm.

"The most consistent guy," O'Brien says, on how he'll chose his starting quarterback. #Texans

I asked O'Brien if he still feels like it'd be tough for someone to win the job this week. He said yes. #Texans

Brian Hoyer is very natural in this offense. He told me this offense is like coming home and it shows during practices. #Texans

One defensive player who's been standing out is Charles James. Had a good day today with pass breakups and an interception. #Texans

Strong day for Brian Hoyer today. More and more of those that we've seen. Minicamp will be fully open to us. #Texans

Jaelen Strong was back at practice today. Here's a blurry picture of him running. #Texans

With Tropical Storm Bill threatening, #Texans practice was moved up two hours and inside. (For the non locals following, this is not a pun)​
 
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Brian T. Smith ‏@ChronBrianSmith
Brandon Brooks had an ulcer last year. Helped him improve diet heading into this offseason. #Texans

Wilfork's farter/father shirt was a Father's Day gift.

Vince Wilfork on @JJWatt: "Intense. The way he practices is the way he plays. ... He make me work harder."

Vince Wilfork is wearing a shirt that reads "World's best farter ... I mean father." #Texans #Jolly

Arian said Andre Johnson not being with #Texans is "weird." Added: "People come, people go. Everybody's going to get the ax one day."​

John McClain ‏@McClain_on_NFL
Duane Brown on Foster "He's a special player, great back and receiver. He's a joy to watch. When he's healthy he's the best back n league."

Brown on Wilfork "You learn so much from him. He's got a lot of character and integrity. It's great to have him on our team."

Duane Brown on Wilfork "He's an incredible player and person in the locker room. I was extremely excited when he signed here."

Wilfork on Foster "He doesn't talk much, but he works his tail off. That's what it's all about, work hard and jump on the train and go."

Wilfork "I like to cook. I like to have guys over and cook for them. I use those moments for team bonding, just being together."

Wilfork "JJ works every day to get better. He's going to be great for a long time. He makes me and the others work harder."

Wilfork "A lot of guys are leaders in their own right. JJ is intense. The way he plays is the way he practices. He has a great motor."

Wilfork "I'm a fun guy, a great teammate. I'm not selfish. It's good to come here and feel like I've been here 12 years."

Wilfork "You want to compete at a high level on a consistent basis. You want to have the right consistency."

Wilfork "I don't look at the game from just a defensive standpoint. I talk to all my teammates about the game to compete at a high level."

Wilfork on getting his 2nd ring with Patriots "It was good to see them one last time. It's closeure, time for me to move on."​

Tania Ganguli ‏@taniaganguli
Vince Wilfork's shirt says "World's greatest farter... I mean father." Father's Day gift a few years ago. #Texans

Brandon Brooks missed a game with an illness last year, went to hospital. Thought it was a stomach flu, but was actually the ulcer. #Texans

Brandon Brooks said he had a stomach ulcer in the offseason so he had to alter his diet. Get rid of soda, junk foods, greasy foods. #Texans

Duane Brown says when Arian Foster gets to the second level, he turns into a fan watching the RB. #Texans

Duane Brown is asked what it's like to see Wilfork across the line. He starts: "Seeing him block out the sun?" #Texans

"Intense. The way he plays is the way he practices," Wilfork says of jjwatt. #Texans

"This is a group that's pretty well coached. Competes at a high level," Vince Wilfork says. #Texans

"It's weird. But that's the league, man ...Everybody's going to get the axe one day," Arian Foster on not having Andre Johnson here. #Texans​

Deepi Sidhu ‏@DeepSlant
Jones played center his whole career before coming to #Texans so a position change would be "like coming home."

Ben Jones is "a highly intelligent guy" who seems to have a photographic memory, says Brandon Brooks. #Texans

Brooks eliminated sodas, junk food. Added greens, chicken/fish, and also does yoga now. #Texans

Brandon Brooks said he had stomach ulcer this offseason and had to change his diet. Related to issue he was hospitalized for during season.

Duane Brown says Arian Foster is the best RB in the league in his eyes, great receiver, has abilities that can't be taught. #Texans

Wilfork on Arian Foster being a leader: He's kind of quiet but he works his tail off. #Texans

Wilfork plans to invite teammates over for a BBQ soon. Says you can learn more about ppl outside of football. #Texans

"He's (Watt's) going to be a great player for a long time," Wilfork says. Watt makes Wilfork a better player too he adds. #Texans

Wilfork on J.J. Watt's success: The way he plays is the way he practices. #Texans

Wilfork says he's a great teammate, not selfish. Can't be selfish at the position he plays. #Texans

Wilfork: This is a group that's pretty well-coached to compete at a high level. #Texans

"I've moved on. Believe me, I've moved on," Wilfork says. #Texans

Vince Wilfork says picking up his SB ring provided "closure." Is ready to start a new chapter with #Texans

Foster says he told Alfred Blue his goal was to make him a third-down back before he left. Wants to extend Blue's time NFL. #Texans

"Younger guys start looking at you like the OG," Arian Foster on being a role model, leader. #Texans​

Drew Dougherty ‏@DoughertyDrew
"Seeing him block out the sun."-Duane Brown on what it's like having Vince Wilfork across the line from him.

"Intense. The way he plays is the way he practices."-Wilfork on J.J. Watt. "It's exciting for me to see."

"They welcomed me here. The City, the fans, the organization."-Wilfork on coming to Houston.

"I talk to the quarterbacks, I talk to the punter..."-Wilfork said he talks football with all his teammates.

"I told him I'm going to make him a 3rd down back before I leave this place."-Foster on Alfred Blue.

"It's a little more smooth this year...We're more efficient."-Arian Foster on the #Texans offense in 2015 OTAs vs. 2014 OTAs.

"Arian Foster has fielded punts."-O'Brien on the return game, and players who've been in the mix.​

Houston Texans ‏@HoustonTexans
"I think I can be much better. There are always things I can work on. I always look at my faults." - Brandon Brooks on improving in 2015.

"He's the best running back in the league in my eyes. He's a special player. It's always a joy to watch him." - Brown on Arian Foster

"He's an incredible player, incredible person to have in our locker room. Great to have on our team"- Duane Brown on Vince Wilfork's impact.

"He's a complete back that can do it all. That's great for this team. Have to pick your poison, so explosive. " - Wilfork on Arian Foster

"He's going to be a great player for a long time, and it all starts with the way he works. We all feed off him." - Wilfork on Watt's impact.

"It's just good to come down here & have the feeling like I've been here for 12 years. That's how it feels." - Wilfork on comfort in Houston

Wilfork: "To be successful you have to compete. If you can't compete at a high level on a consistent basis, you won't have a chance."

"It was good to close the chapter to what we started. But I've moved on." - Vince Wilfork on getting his Super Bowl ring with the Patriots.

"I told him I'm going to make him a 3rd down back before I leave this place."-Foster on Alfred Blue.

"You just give them your life experiences in the NFL. It's cool to fill that role." - Arian Foster on using leadership to help younger guys.​

PDS ‏@PatDStat
Brandon Brooks said he had an ulcer last season which caused him to miss a game. Doctors figured it the issue over the offseason. #Texans

Duane Brown saying he is proud of the way Derek Newton’s career has turned out. Says he knows Newton is not satisfied. #Texans

Wilfork speaking highly of Arian Foster and his work ethic. Calls Foster one of the team leaders. #Texans

Wilfork says he is ready for the team BBQ. Says it helps bring the team together. Says everything is on the menu. #Texans

Wilfork says seeing Watt work everyday, he is going to be a player for a long time. Wilfork also says Watt makes him work harder. #Texans

Wilfork says he feels like he has been with the #Texans for 12 seasons. Says he likes the atmosphere. #Texans

“If you can’t compete in football you will not have a chance.” Vince Wilfork. #Texans

Wilfork says he talks to everyone no matter what position. #Texans

“I have moved on…believe me when I say that.” Vince Wilfork on coming to the #Texans

Foster not scared to talk about when his time is up in Houston. Says it is the way of the league. #Texans

Foster said it was good to be looked at as the “OG” in the locker room by the younger players. #Texans

Foster said he will help make Alfred Blue a three down back before his time is up here. #Texans

Arian Foster said “Big Homie Dre” took care of him as a rookie with the #Texans.

Arian Foster said he still had the same ol Rocky workout over the offseason with his brother Abdul. #Texans​
 
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18 observations from Tuesday's veteran minicamp
John Harris|Texans Analyst

The first of the team’s three day mandatory minicamp took place a few hours than originally scheduled. Bill trying to avoid Bill, obviously. Either way, here are a few observations from the team’s practice session.

1 . It was good to see both Cecil Shorts and Jaelen Strong back practicing this week. The difference two additional healthy receivers make to the mix is substantial. Shorts had probably his best day and made some outstanding catches.

2. Overall, it was one of the “chattiest” practices I’ve ever heard in nine seasons of covering the Texans. The spirit of the practice was highly competitive and it showed throughout the workout. Guys on the sideline were “all in” every team drill. Veterans encouraging rookies, chiding the opposite side of the ball. It added some good pop to every drill.

3. Rookie ILB Benardrick McKinney got a bunch of reps as the coaching staff looked at some younger guys moving around in different combinations with others, especially on defense.

4. The one linebacker that continues to make plays, no matter the combination out on the field, is Mike Mohamed. He had a couple of pass breakups, including one in which he laid out on a ball thrown to Jay Prosch and knocked it down.

5. The vim and vigor of practice was set with a ton of competitive, 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 situations. One that got awfully competitive was a 7-on-7 drill inside the ten yard line. Both Brian Hoyer and Ryan Mallett performed well in that drill. Mallett was six for six, I believe, but Hoyer made some great back of the end zone throws. Of course, a few receivers made some toe tap catches too. Keshawn Martin and Shorts both had Santonio Holmes Super Bowl XLIII moments at the back of the end zone.

6. The first pass play was broken up by...Mohamed.

7. I like watching players do intelligent things and one of the smartest in the passing game is actually a running back - Arian Foster. When the field is condensed, there’s not a ton of space but Arian has a way of finding the hole to sit and settle. He did that to make a catch with about four guys surrounding him.

8. In all, that goal line passing drill was perhaps the best I’ve seen Mallett throw the ball. He made six consecutive rock solid decisions and then followed those up with darts to open receivers.

9. One linebacker that I haven’t mentioned a ton but is instrumental to both defense and special teams is Jeff Tarpinian. He had a PBU early during that goal line passing drill.

10. One thing that was quite noticeable in practice, that Coach O’Brien addressed after practice, was the mixing and matching of personnel in a ton of different situations. The staff wanted to look at different combinations on both sides of the ball. I mentioned McKinney earlier, but Louis Nix was thrown in with the first unit at times as well, amongst others.

11. If there’s an area or position that’s been under the microscope more than any other, it’s the tight ends. One guy that can help change that is former Iowa product C.J. Fiedorowicz. He did have one foible, but he made a ton of catches throughout the rest of practice. He won’t catch 100 passes but he can be a valued member in the intermediate passing game, not to mention he can be a beast after the catch out in space. I’d love to see him take steps in being the run blocker/pass threat the Texans drafted in the third round last year.

12. Deepi Sidhu asked me during practice who was the fastest of all the receivers. I thought about it and then it hit me “Oh, Chandler Worthy, that guy can scoot.” Later in the workout, he caught a ball in the flat, then went mach five up the sideline. Deepi saw my point at that moment. The undrafted rookie from Troy has gotten plenty of reps with some other receivers out of OTAs, but he’s definitely taken advantage of his time on the field.

13. During team session, Jonathan Grimes made a tremendous one hand grab. It was one of a number of great catches throughout the day. The QBs threw it well but Grimes, Foster and the pass catchers did a solid job making some highlight reel catches.

14. Lonnie Ballentine needs work on his man cover skills but there’s something to really like about him at safety. He’s big for a guy at that position but he can move fairly well. He had a pass break-up on the first play of a goal line passing drill. At least once each OTA and minicamp session, he’s done something impressive.

15. Darryl Morris...just keep an eye on this guy. I’m telling you.

16. A guy that not many people know, but is an interesting candidate at the receiver position, is Jace Davis. He was on the team’s practice squad last season. Today, he got my attention a couple of times with his route running in particular to get open. In fact, I have written in my notes “Jace Davis, GREAT route on Charles James.” So, there you go.

17. Speaking of Charles James, he continues to be a pest in coverage...my daily James update, because I feel like I’ve mentioned him throughout the entire OTA/minicamp sessions.

18. We’ve all talked about what great arms Mallett and Tom Savage possess, but Hoyer can launch deep as well. He javelined one about 50 or 55 yards to fellow Spartan Keith Mumphery for the longest gain of the day. That ball was launched!
​
And on that note, I’ll leave you high and dry, hopefully. Well, for now, anyway. Stay safe and we’ll be back tomorrow, no matter what.​
 
Playoffs . . :tiphat:

Playoffs said:
2. Overall, it was one of the “chattiest” practices I’ve ever heard in nine seasons of covering the Texans. The spirit of the practice was highly competitive and it showed throughout the workout. Guys on the sideline were “all in” every team drill. Veterans encouraging rookies, chiding the opposite side of the ball. It added some good pop to every drill.
Click to expand...

My favorite of the report.
 
SOTT -- TEXANS MANDATORY MINI-CAMP: INSIDE THE BUBBLE

Picking Up the Pace

The pace picked up inside the bubble, but this was by design. Head Coach Bill O’Brien pushed the pace and set up more 11 on 11 situations during the start of three days of mini-camp. Both sides of the ball were plugged in and competing at a high level. The potential of Tropical Storm Bill pushed practice into the bubble but it did not change anything from the work standpoint.​

Still Alive

It is though to imagine this but Keshawn Martin continues to keep his name in the discussion for a spot on the roster. He made some tough catches in the back of the end zone that required him to tap two feet in while falling out of bounds. Martin has always been a solid practice player but carrying that to the field has been the issue. With the returner duties still open, Martin will have life heading into training camp.​

Brian Hoyer Shines

It was the best Brian Hoyer has looked all offseason and the offense fed off his accuracy all practice. Hoyer showed he has some good touch throwing the ball and made some strong throws. Cecil Shorts helped the cause being Hoyer’s favorite target and Keith Mumphery made a big play on a long pass downfield running past coverage. His touch and feel for the offense is improving and it looks like he is settling into the offense.

Ryan Mallett has to find a way to find some touch on his passes. He threaded the ball in some tight spaces to receivers in stride but there is still some work to be done developing his consistency. Mallett struggled with some of the personnel he was working with but as mini-camp progresses there could be a better feel for how the quarterback position shakes out.​

A Rookie Returns

Jaelen Strong returned to the field after suffering a hamstring injury at the start of OTAs. He looked like he has been paying attention while injured and did not look out of place running routes. These next two days are important for him to get back into the flow of things with an extended break coming up before training camp.​

Big Day for Cecil Shorts

The veteran wide receiver Cecil Shorts had a strong day catching the football. He showed some quickness in and out of his breaks and made some strong catches in traffic. His best work came in the red-zone work making tightrope catches on the backline of the end zone getting two feet in. Add in another one handed reception, Shorts has come back strong after missing some work during OTAs.​

Defensive Rookies

Benardrick McKinney and Lynden Trail are starting to get a better feel for the game and the defense. They are moving with pace and understanding what the coaches are asking from them. Both long and rangy defenders, they could see some significant work as pieces to the constant changes the defense uses in terms of personnel.

McKinney gives some needed athleticism in the middle while Trail adds another dimension in terms of coverage and rush on the edge. With a defense looking to use multiple looks, Trail and McKinney give some extra pieces to play according to what an offense is giving them.​

Tights Ends Showing Up

It was a solid day for the the position group especially Garrett Graham and Ryan Griffin. The two were giving the defense fits working the middle of the field. Griffin looks like he is getting comfortable with Hoyer, in terms of timing on the field. Graham also had his best day with his routes and pass catching and caused some matchup issues for linebacker and cornerbacks. Rookie Mike McFarland had a solid catch between three defenders off the arm of Mallett that hit him in stride.

There seems to be a more concerted effort in trying to get the tight ends involved in the offense and it was shown today in team sessions.​
 
Playoffs said:
Nobody said Mallett struggled. He improved over his prior practice.

Hoyer took it up a notch yesterday. Both look markedly better than Fitzpatrick did.
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"Ryan Mallett has to find a way to find some touch on his passes. He threaded the ball in some tight spaces to receivers in stride but there is still some work to be done developing his consistency. Mallett struggled with some of the personnel he was working with but as mini-camp progresses there could be a better feel for how the quarterback position shakes out."

Outside of using the actual word "struggle", the author made three separate statements regarding Mallett not performing well.
 
Practically every receiver was mentioned except for Nate Washington. ?
 
sandman said:
Outside of using the actual word "struggle", the author made three separate statements regarding Mallett not performing well.
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Struggling with the personnel doesn't reflect on Mallett. OB was switching up personnel groupings and some of Mal's WRs didn't help him with the catch.

Again, Mallett is the same relative to his prior outings, Hoyer made gains relative to his prior outings. And just for the one day.

Marcus said:
Practically every receiver was mentioned except for Nate Washington. ?
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Shorts won the day, but OB praised Washington as well.
 
Playoffs said:
Struggling with the personnel doesn't reflect on Mallett. OB was switching up personnel groupings and some of Mal's WRs didn't help him with the catch.
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(A) the word was used. (B) that was the overall tenor of the comments. (C) that's your interpretation that 'struggling with personnel' doesn't reflect on Mallett - one I do not share when discussing the captain of the ship who is supposed to be getting everyone in place and connecting with whoever is on the field. Does 'he only plays well with starters' sound like a positive comment to you?
 
infantrycak said:
(A) the word was used. (B) that was the overall tenor of the comments. (C) that's your interpretation that 'struggling with personnel' doesn't reflect on Mallett - one I do not share when discussing the captain of the ship who is supposed to be getting everyone in place and connecting with whoever is on the field. Does 'he only plays well with starters' sound like a positive comment to you?
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6 for 6 sounds like he was playing well with all of the personnel groupings to me. Maybe this is a case of the media seeing what they want to see. (Keeping the QB's on the front burner.)
 
steelbtexan said:
6 for 6 sounds like he was playing well with all of the personnel groupings to me. Maybe this is a case of the media seeing what they want to see. (Keeping the QB's on the front burner.)
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I think this is highly possible and very likely
 
infantrycak said:
...that's your interpretation that 'struggling with personnel' doesn't reflect on Mallett...
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No, that was the guy who witnessed and wrote it's interpretation when I asked him.

infantrycak said:
... Does 'he only plays well with starters' sound like a positive comment to you?
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You're reaching for the negative. If a WR runs the wrong route is that Mallett's fault? Misreads the defense and doesn't adjust his route = Mallett's fault? OL run blocks on a pass play = Mal's fault? There's 90 guys in camp. Not all of them are NFL caliber players. Not all will have full grasp of this offense. Not every pairing is going to have mutual timing down, yet.

steelbtexan said:
6 for 6 sounds like he was playing well with all of the personnel groupings to me...
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That's one set. They throw a lot more than 6 passes in a practice.

steelbtexan said:
Maybe this is a case of the media seeing what they want to see. (Keeping the QB's on the front burner.)
Click to expand...
Outside of McClain, who has his own set of Hoyer pompoms, most of the media have been in Mallett's corner and all agreed that Hoyer had a good day. We'll see if that shifts.

One practice. There's really no need for any gnashing of teeth. Let it play out.
 
Playoffs said:
No, that was the guy who witnessed and wrote it's interpretation when I asked him.

You're reaching for the negative. If a WR runs the wrong route is that Mallett's fault? Misreads the defense and doesn't adjust his route = Mallett's fault? OL run blocks on a pass play = Mal's fault? There's 90 guys in camp. Not all of them are NFL caliber players. Not all will have full grasp of this offense. Not every pairing is going to have mutual timing down, yet.
Click to expand...

If he wrote it, then it's not interpretation. Anyway...

Then it's just sloppy/poor writing in my book. It's in the QB section about Mallett. Why not in comments about the WRs, OL, etc.? Why not a statement like - 'Mallett's reps were marred by some blown assignments with all the substitutions going on'? Starting a sentence with "Mallett struggled" puts the focus on Mallett. But, moving on...

Damn, nice delayed server error post
 
sandman said:
"Ryan Mallett has to find a way to find some touch on his passes. He threaded the ball in some tight spaces to receivers in stride but there is still some work to be done developing his consistency. Mallett struggled with some of the personnel he was working with but as mini-camp progresses there could be a better feel for how the quarterback position shakes out."

Outside of using the actual word "struggle", the author made three separate statements regarding Mallett not performing well.
Click to expand...
And would that author be someone we can trust or someone we know we cannot trust in these things?
 
Bret Favre never learned what touch was. His receivers manned up & caught the dang ball.
 
Marshall said:
And would that author be someone we can trust or someone we know we cannot trust in these things?
Click to expand...

Doesn't matter. An article was posted that said Mallett struggled. Then we played a round of Bill Clinton trying to define what "is" is...
 
sandman said:
Doesn't matter. An article was posted that said Mallett struggled. Then we played a round of Bill Clinton trying to define what "is" is...
Click to expand...
People are quick to take sides when the best thing is happening and that is having three QBs who are better than any that were here last year. Hoyer is new, but both Mallet and Savage have improved as well. This is a good thing. We could have had three QB's which are worse than last year. Having only one improve may make the selection easier, but the team is better with all of them improving.

I'm happy the way it's turning out and I really don't care which of the three is starting against Kansas City.
 
Marshall said:
People are quick to take sides when the best thing is happening and that is having three QBs who are better than any that were here last year.
Click to expand...

Brian Hoyer has never played as well as Fitz did last year (neither had Fitz previously). He may have some untapped potential still. But right now we can't say we have any QBs better than Fitz last year.
 
Houston Texans ‏@HoustonTexans

The Houston Texans minicamp practice for today, June 18, has been canceled.
​
JJ Watt ‏@JJWatt

Squad headed to check out an early screening of Terminator Genisys thanks to @Schwarzenegger #IllBeBack​


From Wednesday, 6/17...

tempBB1_0702--nfl_mezz_1280_1024.JPG


PDS ‏@PatDStat

A.J. Bouye has been limited this off-season recovering from shoulder surgery. Said he will be ready for training camp. #Texans

“Good is the enemy of the great.” J.J. Watt. #Texans

J.J. Watt is saying he is still working his ass off and trying to enjoy his life. Something he did not do in his early years. #Texans

Jaelen Strong missed mini-camp today, O’Brien says he will be fine. #Texans

Nate Washington has been out the past two mandatory mini-camp practices with an illness. #Texans

Bill O’Brien said the real test for Lynden Trail comes when the pads come on. Said he has the “Potential” to be a good edge setter. #Texans

Maurice Jones-Drew was taking in practice today. Spoke highly of his former teammate Cecil Shorts and what he can bring to the #Texans.

Mixed bag for Ryan Mallett and Brian Hoyer running the offense. Hoyer had more positives today on the field. #Texans

Strong day for Tom Savage throwing the ball today. Best he has looked all offseason. #Texans

Arian Foster looked good today. Moving well. #Texans​


Jayson Braddock ‏@JaysonBraddock

Lots of variables, 1s vs 1s w/ tons of starters out. 2s vs 2s. 3s vs 3s. No hitting, no pads. No penalty for holding ball 7 sec & slow read.

Normally don't keep stats from practice but just wanted to give an idea of the QB comp for those living & dying w each report.

Tom Savage:

19 for 26, 3 TDs

1 of his passes would have been a sack. Defense had 1 dropped INT.

Internal clock much quicker.​

Brian Hoyer:

16 for 29, 4 TDs

4 of his passes, including 2 TD passes would have been sacks. Defense dropped 1 INT. WRs dropped 1 pass.​

Ryan Mallett:

16 for 28, 2 TDs

His targets dropped 4 passes and the defense dropped 1 INT. Keshawn dropped 50 yd Go w great placement.​

Going to give out QB passing numbers from 7 on 7s, 7 on 9s & 11 on 11s. No pads. Mallett w/ 1s. Hoyer w/ 2s. Savage w/ 3s. Grain of salt.

WR Jace Davis had a good day of practice today. Climbed the ladder on one catch and came down with the ball on the sideline.

After tomorrow's practice, Texans rookies will return July 27th.

"Very competitive guy. At a very competitive position and he's competing his butt off" OB on Jace Davis

"Kevin Johnson is a young player with a really bright future. He's a smart guy, he's a transitional player." OB on Kevin Johnson

"He's definitely improved. He's made improvement from the end of the season until now" OB on Savage

Tons of notes later & on "Hustletown" tonight. One thing for now, Tom Savage is developing.​


John McClain ‏@McClain_on_NFL

Watt on Carlos Correa "He's killing it. It's so cool Astros are playing so well. I've worn an Astros cap almost every day since I got here."

Watt on talking to teammates "I told them good is the enemy of great. When they're home, they should do everything possible to be ready for camp"

Watt on Wilfork "He's been very complimentary of what we're trying to build here. I'm going to just keep doing what I'm doing."

Watt on going to CMAs last week "It's fun to learn about success in a different world. It was so much fun meeting new people there."

Watt on Wilfork "He's a great leader. I ask him what can I do better to become a better leader? That's important to me."

Watt on Wilfork "He's been around great players and great leaders. I asked him what made your championship teams great?"

O'Brien "Fiedorowicz is a very improved player. He's had a good spring. Has good knowledge of what we're doing. Very competitive position."

O'Brien "Nate Washington has had a good spring. Made a connection with both QBs. Works hard, lot of experience. Receivers have worked hard."

O'Brien on S Lonnie Ballentine "He's improved. This is similar to rookie year for him. He's an excellent athlete with good size and speed."

O'Brien on CB Charles James "He's very competive. Quick guy who's learned our defense. Good ball skills. Smart. Hard worker."

O'Brien on Hoyer throwing on run "He did a lot of that in Cleveland and was very good at it. Mallett is a good ball faker, too."

O'Brien on Kevin Johnson "He's a young player with a bright future. He's a hard worker. Good transitional player. Good quickness."

O'Brien brought in officials for today's practice "Players pay extra attention to follow rules when officials there."

O'Brien on Tom Savage "He's improved. He's worked really hard to get better."

Maurice Jones-Drew was Bill O'Brien's guest 2day. He's with a company showing O'Brien a virtual reality program for players.​


Tania Ganguli ‏@taniaganguli

J.J. Watt's advice to younger players: "Good is the enemy of great." #Texans

"I'm never content, I'm never satisfied because of the things my dad taught me," J.J. Watt says of what Father's Day means to him. #Texans

Watt's trying to enjoy things more. Early on "I focused so damn hard on working my ass off every day." Still works, but enjoys more. #Texans

O'Brien is happy with the tight ends. "It's been a productive spring for the tight end position." #Texans

O'Brien singled out Nate Washington as a receiver who has impressed him. Not the first time. He was sick today and not at practice. #Texans

O'Brien says this is like a rookie year for Lonnie Ballentine and he's made progress. #Texans

Just like Mallett last week, O'Brien today disagrees that the #Texans don't have a pass rush in these non-contact practices.

#Texans had officials at practice today for team drills.

O'Brien says former Patriots QB Matt Gutierrez & former Jags RB Jones-Drew are here to share a training app they're working on. #Texans

Keith Mumphery looked great. Made an excellent tiptoe TD catch with 2 DBs draped on him. #Texans​


Will Grubb ‏@GrubbReport

Watt on Clowney "I have seen him mature." #Texans

Watt "Vince has been very complimentary of everything we've been trying to build here. He's been awesome." #Texans

O'Brien very complimentary of the tight ends. Mentions the quarterbacks like throwing to them. #Texans

O''Brien "Fiedorowicz is a very improved player" #Texans

O'Brien "Kevin Johnson is a young player who's got a really bright future" #Texans

O'Brien on Savage "I think if he keeps making steady progress, he's got a chance." #Texans

O'Brien on Tom Savage "He's definitely improved." #Texans​


Deepi Sidhu ‏@DeepSlant

"Good is the enemy of great," Watt told his teammates after practice today. Wants younger players to keep working and striving to improve.

J.J. Watt says he goes to Vince Wilfork to get his thoughts on what to improve. #Texans

WR Nate Washington missed minicamp practice today with an illness. O'Brien believes he'll be back tomorrow. #Texans

S Lonnie Ballentine made progress this spring, considering it's essentially a rookie year for him after missing last year, says O'Brien.

Ryan Mallett may not be the most mobile QB, but he's very good at selling the fake, says O'Brien. #Texans

Referees were officiating practice today at #Texans minicamp.

O'Brien on Tom Savage looking "improved": If he keeps making steady progress, he's got a chance. #Texans​


Drew Dougherty ‏@DoughertyDrew

"I have seen him mature...we're excited to get him back on the field, whenever that is."-Watt on Jadeveon Clowney.

"Nobody knows how good anybody is on the o-line or d-line."-Watt on what lack of pads during minicamp does as far as gauging who's improved.

"I go to him and (ask) 'What made your championship teams great?'"-J.J. Watt, on some of the interactions he has w/Vince Wilfork.

O'Brien: S Lonnie Ballentine has improved, but this is essentially a rookie year for him. He's made progress this spring.​


Brian T. Smith ‏@ChronBrianSmith

J.J. Watt on Jadeveon Clowney: "I have seen him mature ... and it's a good sign." Said Clowney is growing as a person. #Texans

J.J. Watt said one of the main reason he loves his true friends is because they haven't changed as his name has grown. #Texans

J.J. Watt will return to his cabin during break. Joked, "For the record, the cabin is not minimalistic." Said he's very lucky to have it.

J.J. Watt joked it's "annoying" that O'Brien ignores defense, sacks during non-contact offseason practices. #Texans

C.J. Fiedorowicz is "very improved," O'Brien said. #Texans

Nate Washington has had a good offseason, O'Brien said. #Texans

O'Brien said #Texans first-round pick Kevin Johnson has a "really bright future." Good transitional player; smart guy and hard worker. #NFL

Maurice Jones-Drew is at #Texans' facility. Team is "checking out" a virtual reality program that MJD is attached to, O'Brien said.​
 
infantrycak said:
Brian Hoyer has never played as well as Fitz did last year (neither had Fitz previously). He may have some untapped potential still. But right now we can't say we have any QBs better than Fitz last year.
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This. Fitz is universally regarded as a great backup or the guy you call when your The Guy goes down for the season. No QB on this roster has come close to having a Fitz year, and the guy who seems to be leading the race at this point is still having the Potential tag placed on him yet turns 30 in a few months.

I don't care that they are really competitive with each other and "improving every day" and really taking a shine to this offense. I feel no better about the QB situation this year that I did last year. Fitz is a pretty smart dude so it's not like he wasn't capable of picking it up. Hoyer would have to improve vastly on his one season as a starting QB just to be in the conversation with Fitz. Mallett doesn't seem to be seizing the opportunity that is right in front of him. Savage is a 4th rounder still working on his Brady strategy. I'll let a few games get played before I start saying that the mediocre and unproven they have this year is better than the mediocre and unproven from last year.
 
O’Brien Sees Improved Tight End Play At Minicamp

Houston (CBS Houston) – The Texans tight ends were largely missing from the offense in 2014. Rookie C.J. Fiedorowicz struggled to carve out a role while Garrett Graham and Ryan Griffin remained largely off the radar. But as the Texans gear up for the 2015 season, Bill O’Brien thinks they’ll have a bigger impact.

“I think that position is very improved,” Bill O’Brien said. “Ryan Griffin, Garrett Graham, C.J. Fiedorowicz – those guys have come out here and had good springs. They really have good knowledge of what we’re doing.”

Fiedorowicz, who the Texans traded up in the third round to take in 2014, caught only four passes for 24 yards and a touchdown.
“Fiedorowicz is a much improved player,” O’Brien said. “I do (think he can do it in the regular season). I think he’s really worked hard on the things we’ve asked him to work on.”

With Ryan Mallett and Brian Hoyer still battling for the starting quarterback position, it’s unknown who will be targeting the tight ends on game day, but whoever it is, O’Brien thinks there will be positive results.

“These quarterbacks seem to like to throw to tight ends,” O’Brien said. “It’s been a productive spring for the tight end position.​
 
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