As of now, the Houston Texans have their guy. After struggling last year with quarterback play from Matt Schaub and two backups, the Texans have made it a priority to get people in place that can keep the offense consistent. They signed veteran journeyman Ryan Fitzpatrick while drafting rookie Tom Savage in the fourth round this year. While many NFL sources believe the Texans are poised to make a trade at the quarterback position, the team is defusing any idea there is a competition taking place.
The Texans have announced that Fitzpatrick is the team's starting quarterback from here on out. His contract certainly dictates that as well as his veteran status. The quarterback used to start for the Buffalo Bills before starting nine games for the Tennessee Titans while filling in for the injured Jake Locker. He threw for 2,454 yards and 14 touchdowns. While Fitzpatrick does not exactly scream excitement for the fanbase, he will be a solid choice while Savage develops.
"He earned it," O'Brien said, via ESPN.com. "He earned it with his preparation. He earned it with his accuracy." "Everybody on our team every single day has to go out there and earn their spot on the team, earn their starting spot. So quarterback is no different. We have confidence in his ability to lead our football team. He's done a really good job in the offseason of picking up our system and he's executed it well."
While announcing Fitzpatrick as the starting quarterback, the Texans also made note that fourth-string quarterback TJ Yates also released. The former North Carolina quarterback was a fifth round selection back in 2011 and helped the Texans win their first franchise playoff game. He struggled last season after winning the backup spot, tossing a pick-six the first opportunity he had to step on the field.
O'Brien stressed that right now he wants consistency in the quarterback position which is why he is naming a starter now instead of letting a competition play out. He does not want any doubt about who is in charge with the offense, so while Savage may develop quickly, if Fitzpatrick is playing well then he will remain the starter.
"With all three of those guys we need just a little bit more consistency," O'Brien said. "It has nothing to do with effort or work ethic. Those guys have all worked extremely hard. They've all done what we've asked them to do."
With the release of Yates and the promotion of Fitzpatrick, the Texans are being ruled out for any quarterback trades in the near future. The team has been linked to everyone from Ryan Mallett to Matt McGloin in the press, but for now they remain satisfied with the players on the roster.
