:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65141856/deshaun.0.jpg)
Warren Sharp’s Strength of Schedule: Pre-Andrew Luck retirement, Warren Sharp had the Texans projected to face the NFL’s hardest schedule. Things got a little bit easier with Luck’s retirement but that only changes things for two of the Texans’ 2019 games. They now face the NFL’s 12th-hardest offensive schedule.
Must Draft
All offseason, Establish The Run’s Evan Silva has highlighted the fact that Deshaun Watson’s rushing and passing numbers increase by nearly 1.5 yards when the Texans are losing. This is likely because it forces the Texans out of their run-based offense and forces them to unleash Watson who excels outside of the pocket and which allows him to make plays with his athletic ability. Given the Texans’ Strength of Schedule and the loaded pass-catching corps around him, Watson’s in for a career year and the overall QB1 finish.
DeAndre Hopkins is possibly the most talented receiver in the NFL and Will Fuller is fully recovered from his ACL tear. The latter will be looking to build on his absurd 936 yard, 11 touchdown pace over his last 17 games.
Smart drafters knew Duke Johnson Jr. would takeover the lead back job in Houston even before Lamar Miller was tragically lost for the season. Now that his role is cemented though, Duke could seriously push for 250+ touches this year, a large portion of which through the air. He’s the perfect weapon for the Texans’ offense and he’s a Must Draft in the 5th Round.
Good Values
Update 8/31/19: The acquisition of diminutive speedster Kenny Stills likely steals a few targets per game from Keke Coutee in the short area of the field as well as 1-2 deep targets from Will Fuller.
Keke Coutee has flashed major playmaking ability—and is loved by the coaching staff. He’s recovered from his preseason ankle injury and should be considered a matchup-base splash play.
Kenny Stills is worth a speculative add, late in drafts.
Monitor
Keep an eye on Damarea Crockett as the potential No. 2 RB.
Jordan Thomas could separate himself as a tight end passing game option.
Avoid
N/A