I’m always fascinated with the UFAs signed by the Texans after the Draft. The Texans only drafted five players leaving lots of room for those guys. They usually peter out before September but in May I have high hopes.

QB Nick Tiano out of Chattanooga looks and sounds like Tony Romo in the rough. 6’4", 240 lbs. with an NFL arm, RB legs whose best trait may be what’s between his ears. Watch the tape, you’ll like him. How about RB Scottie Phillips from Ole Miss. Vision to wait for the blocks to develop then one cut, plant and go. Almost a swim move. Not too fast but with a good offensive lineman who knows. Others that have opportunity in need positions are NT Auzoyah Alufohai, OG Cordel Iwuagwu and blocking TE Dylan Stapleton. You never know until you know about these guys.

Their first selection in the Draft was DT Ross Blacklock and may be the only player to contribute this year. The expectation is that he can provide a push up the middle. I don’t think the Texans has ever had a defensive tackle that could do that. Their other four selections probably won’t get enough reps to contribute in 2020. They are fodder for the future.

I believe the team is anticipating a shortened season. They have been loading up on veteran O talent and now need to spend some of their $15.478 MM of remaining cap cash to help the D.

DT D.J. Reader was lost in free agency, but his position was semi filled with the FA signing of DT Timmy Jernigan and the fore mentioned DT Ross Blacklock. The Texans drafted mostly D, but that help is at least a year away. Expect more vets to sign especially as we get closer to June first.

22MM a year OLT Laremy Tunsil, OLG Max Scharping, C Nick Martin and ORT Tytus Howard are known commodities when and if the season starts. I believe the Texans are looking for a starting ORG. Their offensive line is set; the O is set. Not looking for a starting QB, RB, TE, nor OL. Looking for D. Where is DE Jadeveon Clowney when you need him?

 

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