The Houston Texans are trying to pick up the pieces following the injury news to Arian Foster. With uncertainty on offense, the run game was supposed to be a focal point this year and losing Foster for any period of time is a tough blow. However, with Foster out, the wide receivers are prepared to truly shine this season. With Andre Johnson off to the Indianapolis Colts, Houston will be the DeAndre Hopkins show in 2015.
With Johnson gone, Hopkins moves into the starting receiver role for the Texans. After having a roller coaster start to his career with inconsistent stats, the Houston Chronicle is reporting that Hopkins is looking better than ever and could end up being a fantasy star. With Foster gone, the Texans need Hopkins to be a big playmaker to take some pressure off the offense. According to Hopkins everyone is ready to step up.
"Just work hard," Hopkins said, via the Houston Chronicle. "Don't try to relive last year. This is a new year, new team. I have a new focus. I feel a lot different. I'm playing and not thinking too much. We're just playing and not having to learn the playbook. I didn't make the Pro Bowl, so there's always something to work on. I still have the mindset I had as a rookie. And that's coming out here and dominating."
The battle is open for the No.2 receiver spot as the Texans added depth in the offseason. Jaelen Strong, Nate Washington and Cecil Shorts are the best options for the role. According to head coach Bill O'Brien, Washington could be in the lead for the job, but right now everyone is impressing which is all he really wants to see. However, the veteran knowledge of Washington could be what pushes in forward.
"If we were to line up right now, we would go with obviously Hopkins and then probably Washington right now but we mix and match a lot," O'Brien said, via the team website. "(Cecil) Shorts has had a really good training camp. I think some of these younger guys have come on strong."
Strong took on some criticism following his appearance at OTAs where he showed up overweight. However, the rookie came into training camp looking slimmer and stronger. The receiver is aiming to make an impression early in hopes of earning a spot in the starting rotation.
Right now, Hopkins is the best fantasy pick along with Alfred Blue who moves up as the starting running back with Foster out. The uncertainty at quarterback could be what holds these players back. Ryan Mallett and Brian Hoyer are battling it out to be the starters in the upcoming season. O'Brien told the media he is in no hurry to name a starter just yet.