But when Bob McNair fired Kubiak with three games remaining, the owner named Keenum the starter. As it turned out, Kubiak wasn't sold on Keenum. When Gary Kubiak benched Matt Schaub last season, he turned to Keenum as the starter instead of T.J.

One thing we know about the Texans is they're not sentimental in choosing a roster.īut Keenum fans should acknowledge he was given every chance with the Texans. Keenum's many fans in Houston won't agree, just as Vince Young fans didn't agree when the Texans didn't draft him and Johnny Manziel fans didn't agree when the Texans didn't draft him. Watt to a long-term deal for their future. The price, a conditional seventh-round draft choice in 2016, was right for the Texans even if Mallett plays only one season for them. It could be the Patriots were more willing partners when convinced rookie Jimmy Garoppolo could back up Tom Brady, making Mallett expendable, especially because he isn't signed beyond this season. It could be they've known all along they could make the deal but didn't until desperation forced their hand. It could be the Texans have been pursuing Mallett since May - when it was first reported they were close to trading for him - and hadn't been able to close the deal. The timeline on Sunday's trade with New England for Mallett is unclear. So the Texans' quarterbacks when the season opens Sunday at NRG Stadium against Washington will not include Keenum. Ultimately, though, O'Brien concluded, 'Last night was not one of our better nights.' I think we all have to understand that as coaches and understand that these guys have worked very hard and they have improved.' But again, it's very difficult to get into a rhythm. Part of that, we're trying to evaluate how you would handle that. O'Brien went home and wrestled with those questions.Īddressing the quarterback situation the next day, O'Brien said: 'Part of it, and this is not an excuse, it's just something I've been thinking about all night, but when you play in the preseason, it's a little bit disjointed. Who might be available who would be better?

See More CollapseĬould Keenum, who possesses some skills Fitzpatrick and Savage don't, adapt if given more time?

All these sleepless nights houston