Position analysis: Quarterbacks
Going into this fourth season, Deshaun Watson is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. If all goes according to plan, he’ll sign a contract extension before the start of regular season that could average $40 million a year.
Despite losing his favorite target in All-Pro receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who was traded to Arizona, Watson reports to training camp with more talent and speed at receiver than any time in his career. The receivers’ ability to stay healthy should determine what kind of numbers Watson is able to compile with offensive coordinator Tim Kelly calling plays for the first time.
Watson has led the Texans to AFC South titles in each of the past two seasons when they finished 11-5 and 10-6. He played 15 games last season after being rested in the last one to prepare
Under contract: for the playoffs. Still, Watson tied his career high with 26 touchdown passes.
Watson is a dangerous runner who scored a team-high seven touchdowns rushing, meaning he accounted for 33 TDs in 2019.
With so many weapons to throw to at receiver, tight end and running back, he is capable of at least 35 TD passes and breaking his career high of 4,165 yards in 2018.
The former Clemson star is working behind an offensive line that returns all five starters and should improve in its second season together. Last season, the offense focused more on Watson’s passing, and coach Bill O’Brien called fewer running plays than any time during his first six seasons.
Expect that same strategy this season with Kelly taking over the play-calling duties. Until regular season begins, though, don’t expect to see much of what Kelly has planned for Watson and his receivers.