The cloud of Deshaun Watson left the Houston Texans over the winter. Davis Mills handled himself well in his rookie season, but the Texans only added one upgrade at wide receiver (John Metchie) in this year’s draft class. The running back position gains Marlon Mack and Dameon Pierce, which may not be a significant improvement. Brandin Cooks looks to be the only fantasy-relevant player until Metchie recovers fully from his torn ACL (last December).
OFFENSE
Houston ran the ball 43.5% of the time last season due to losing in many games. Despite needing to chase on the scoreboard, they averaged only 32.1 passes per game. Overall, the Texans need to improve in all areas of the game to create better production in rushing and passing yards.
QUARTERBACKS
Davis Mills
In his first season with Houston, Mills went 2-9 over 11 starts. He passed for 2,664 yards with 16 touchdowns and 10 interceptions while offering strength in his completion rate (66.8). His best play passing the ball came in four home starts (312/3, 310/2, 331/1, 301/3). Unfortunately for the Texans, Mills gained only 6.8 yards per pass attempt with 31 sacks.
Fantasy outlook: The Texans lack an impact pass-catching back while needing their top tight end to develop. Their wide receiving corps can surprise at times, but Houston needs Nico Collins and/or John Metchie to be productive for Mills to push higher in the quarterback ranking this year. He comes off the board as the 28th at quarterback in the National Fantasy Football Championship in late May. At best, 4,000 combined yards with below-par passing touchdowns. Mills offers no value as a runner.
Other Options: Kyle Allen, Jeff Driskel, Kevin Hogan
