Xavier Hutchinson knew as much about special teams as the numeral on cornerback Desmond King’s new jersey.
“Absolutely zero in college, I won’t even lie to you,” Hutchinson said.
However, the Houston Texans’ sixth-round receiver was a quick study and understood the sure way to make the team would be on special teams. As prolific as Hutchinson was at Iowa State last season with 107 catches for 1,171 yards and six touchdowns, it wasn’t enough to unseat Robert Woods and Nico Collins for playing time.
Although Hutchinson has been enthusiastic about playing special teams, the beginning hasn’t been easy.
“Obviously, I’ve taken my lumps with it. I’m learning something very new to myself, but to have [special teams] coach Frank [Ross] and everybody — some of the veterans who have played it at the highest level just always giving back into me and just teaching me the little, small things, it’s made it a lot easier,” said Hutchinson. “But I’m very excited about it though. I’m excited to see what I can do on [special teams], and excited to see if that can be a part of me helping the team out.”
Part of what has made the transition challenging for Hutchinson are some of the techniques. For instance, lining up to run a pattern involves a different set of footwork and explosion than bursting downfield as a gunner on special teams or staying in to block.
“I think it’s just the technique, honestly,” Hutchinson explained. “Like, the get-offs, being in a new stance that I’m not normally in ever. Just those little, small things.”
While Hutchinson had doubts about his ability to contribute in the transition phase of the game, the 6-3, 210-pounder has nevertheless discovered commitment pays off.
Said Hutchinson: “It’s really not as hard as it seems, you just really have to be committed to it and you have to care. So, you know, that’s really about it, to be honest with you. You just have to have some type of dog in you to want to compete and want to be out there on special teams.”
Hutchinson figures to be a part of the Texans’ special teams units as Houston kicks off their preseason slate Aug. 10 against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium.
