During the offseason, Ryan Mallett's stock was very high. The backup quarterback was entering the final year of his contract and after sitting behind Tom Brady for three years with the New England Patriots, most assumed he was good-to-go for a starting job in the NFL. Mallett has yet to spend any real time in a regular-season game, but is about to get his shot as the Texans hope he lives up to the hype.
Head coach Bill O'Brien announced on Wednesday that Mallett would be starting for the Texans after their bye week. The team has seen enough of Ryan Fitzpatrick who continues to struggle in the offseason and they are now turning to the backup after making a trade for him prior to the season beginning. For his part, Fitzpatrick is not thrilled. The quarterback understands that a move needs to be made in order to try something different as the losses pile up, but he is not thrilled about getting replaced.
"I don't like it, and I don't agree with it, but I respect the heck out of Coach O 'Brien," Fitzpatrick said, via Joh McClain of the Houston Chronicle. "It's a tough pill to swallow, but now it's all about being a good teammate. I will be supportive of Ryan and do everything I can to help him and help us get a win. I'm not happy about it, but coach O'Brien made the decision and explained it to me. I'll be a good soldier and support Ryan."
Fitzpatrick has 11 touchdowns and eight interceptions to his name despite having three of the best offensive performers to work with. He has failed to utilize Andre Johnson and DeAndre Hopkins, causing frustration in the fan base. Fitzpatrick is currently signed to a two-year, $7.25 million contract with $4 million of that guaranteed. However, the Texans are desperate for quarterback success and would be willing to overlook the guaranteed money in order to get the right guy on the field.
If Mallett excels with the Texans, he could be that guy. The quarterback will essentially be auditioning for both the Texans and other teams considering his contract is currently ending. The backup quarterback will have every chance to prove himself worthy of more money and the Texans might be the best landing spot for him. The quarterback is very familiar with O'Brien after the two worked together in New England. He understands the offense and has the weapons to work with. If things go well, Houston might opt to simply re-sign him for the future.