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2010 Texans Off-Season Thread (1 Viewer)

Texans Roster as of Jan 10

http://www.houstontexans.com/team/Roster.asp?sort_by=2

1 Turk, Matt P 6-5 248 Wisc.-Whitewater 14th

3 Brown, Kris K 5-11 212 Nebraska 11th

5 Grossman, Rex QB 6-1 217 Florida 7th

7 Orlovsky, Dan QB 6-5 230 Connecticut 5th

8 Schaub, Matt QB 6-5 239 Virginia 6th

11 Davis, André WR 6-1 194 Virginia Tech 9th

12 Jones, Jacoby WR 6-2 206 Lane College 3rd

17 Martinez, Glenn WR 6-1 185 Saginaw Valley 4th

20 Slaton, Steve RB 5-9 215 West Virginia 2nd

21 Moats, Ryan RB 5-8 208 Louisiana Tech 5th

22 Brown, Chris RB 6-3 234 Colorado 7th

23 Robinson, Dunta CB 5-10 182 South Carolina 6th

25 Ferguson, Nick S 5-11 202 Georgia Tech 10th

27 Henry, Chris RB 5-11 230 Arizona 3rd

28 Molden, Antwaun CB 6-1 192 Eastern Kentucky 2nd

29 Quin, Glover * CB 6-0 203 New Mexico 1st

31 Pollard, Bernard SS 6-1 224 Purdue 4th

32 Bennett, Fred CB 6-1 200 South Carolina 3rd

34 Barber, Dominique S 6-0 214 Minnesota 2nd

35 Reeves, Jacques CB 5-11 188 Purdue 6th

37 Foster, Arian * RB 6-1 215 Tennessee 1st

38 Parson, Mark * CB 5-10 192 Ohio University 1st

40 Busing, John S 6-2 217 Miami (Ohio) 4th

42 Russell, Brian S 6-2 210 San Diego State 8th

41 McCain, Brice * CB 5-9 179 Utah 1st

44 Leach, Vonta FB 6-0 265 East Carolina 6th

48 Pittman, Bryan LS 6-3 265 Washington 7th

52 Adibi, Xavier LB 6-2 243 Virginia Tech 2nd

54 Diles, Zac LB 6-2 237 Kansas State 3rd

55 Myers, Chris C 6-4 299 Miami (Fla.) 5th

56 Cushing, Brian * LB 6-3 262 Southern California 1st

57 Bentley, Kevin LB 6-0 245 Northwestern 8th

59 Ryans, DeMeco LB 6-1 248 Alabama 4th

62 Caldwell, Antoine * C 6-3 312 Alabama 1st

63 White, Chris C 6-2 290 Southern Mississippi 5th

64 Studdard, Kasey G 6-3 306 Texas 3rd

66 Robinson, DelJuan DT 6-3 320 Mississippi State 2nd

70 Reyes, Tutan G 6-3 305 Mississippi 10th

73 Winston, Eric T 6-5 319 Miami (Fla.) 4th

76 Brown, Duane T 6-4 313 Virginia Tech 2nd

78 Butler, Rashad T 6-4 310 Miami (Fla.) 4th

80 Johnson, Andre WR 6-3 228 Miami (Fla.) 7th

83 Walter, Kevin WR 6-3 215 Eastern Michigan 7th

85 Dreessen, Joel TE 6-4 248 Colorado State 4th

86 Casey, James * TE 6-4 244 Rice University 1st

87 Hill, Anthony * TE 6-6 269 N.C. State 1st

89 Anderson, David WR 5-10 197 Colorado State 4th

90 Williams, Mario DE 6-6 288 N.C. State 4th

91 Okoye, Amobi DT 6-2 296 Louisville 3rd

92 Zgunia, Jeff DE 6-2 290 Purdue

93 Bulman, Tim DE 6-4 267 Boston College 3rd

94 Smith, Antonio DE 6-4 285 Oklahoma State 6th

95 Cody, Shaun DT 6-4 310 Southern California 5th

96 Jamison, Tim * DE 6-3 263 Michigan 1st

97 Okam, Frank DT 6-5 338 Texas 2nd

98 Barwin, Connor * DE 6-4 256 Cincinnati 1st

Injured reserve

20 Slaton, Steve RB 5-9 215 West Virginia 2nd

26 Wilson, Eugene S 5-10 200 Illinois 7th

28 Molden, Antwaun CB 6-1 202 Eastern Kentucky 2nd

33 Nolan, Troy * S 6-2 206 Arizona State 1st

38 Johnson, Jeremiah * RB 5-9 210 Oregon 1st

51 Thompson, Chaun LB 6-2 243 West Texas A&M 7th

53 Campbell, Khary LB 6-2 224 Bowling Green 8th

61 Verdell, Toddrick * LB 6-3 225 Florida State 1st

65 Brisiel, Mike G 6-5 304 Colorado State 3rd

69 Pitts, Chester G 6-4 321 San Diego State 8th

81 Daniels, Owen TE 6-3 245 Wisconsin 4th

Practice Squad

50 Bing, Darnell LB 6-2 220 University of Southern California 3rd

58 Freeman, Marcus * LB 6-1 239 Ohio State 1st

61 Crummey, Andrew OL 6-5 301 Maryland 2nd

72 Nading, Jesse DE 6-5 264 Colorado State 2nd

74 Helms, Brett * C 6-2 270 LSU 1st

79 Stenavich, Adam T 6-4 308 Michigan 1st

88 Sherrod, Dezmond TE 6-2 250 Mississippi State

99 Egboh, Pannel * DE 6-6 276 Stanford 1st

 
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http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports...nt/6808207.html

"Denver offensive line coach Rick Dennison is coming to Houston to interview for the Texans' offensive coordinator job.

Dennison, who spent 24 years with the Broncos as a player and assistant coach, will replace Kyle Shanahan if he accepts the job.

Dennison replaced Gary Kubiak as the Broncos' offensive coordinator in 2006. Last season, new coach Josh McDaniels had Dennison focus on the offensive line.

When Kubiak left the Broncos for the Texans in 2006, he tried to bring Dennison with him, but then-coach Mike Shanahan refused.

"We're going to interview Rick (Monday)," Kubiak said. "I want him, but we have to let things run their course."

Other coaches on Kubiak's list for offensive coordinator are Atlanta Falcons quarterbacks coach Bill Musgrave and former Kansas City offensive coordinator Chan Gailey"

 
Interview as to the whyhttp://www.myfoxhouston.com/dpp/sports/nfl...gibbs-interview

HOUSTON - Alex Gibbs, who almost never talks to the media, confirmed on Tuesday he has left his job as assistant head coach/offense with the Houston Texans to join the staff of new head coach Pete Carroll and the Seattle Seahawks.

"I know I am going to be coaching the offensive line for Seattle," Gibbs said in an interview with FOX 26 Sports. "Other than that I don't know anything else.

"If I'm the assistant head coach fine. If I'm not, fine. I know I am going to coach the offensive line."

Gibbs, who worked with John Benton in coaching the Texans offensive line, said leaving the Houston Texans was an easy decision and the right thing to do.

"I was in John's way," Gibbs said. "I needed to get out of his way.

"John is doing a great job and I'm on to another challenge."

Gibbs coached for the Texans for two years and considered retiring from the game before choosing to go to Seattle.

Reality for Gibbs is retirement was never really an option.

"I think I'm sick," Gibbs said. "I can't do anything else. I'm helpless.

"And there are times my wife wants me out of the house."

Gibbs said going to work for Carroll is a logical next step for him.

"He and I have talked about this for a long time, but I didn't think it would happen," Gibbs said.

Gibbs said the two became close while Carroll was at USC.

"After Pete's first year at USC he was not happy with the direction of his offense," Gibbs said. "He liked what we were doing at Denver when I was a part-time coach there.

"So I helped him after his first year at USC. I helped coach the coaches at USC. We coached off of film, not the field. I didn't work with any players."

Gibbs said it was important that he detail what he did at USC, so it would be clear no NCAA rules were violated.

"USC paid me a fee and I worked for them as a consultant," Gibbs said.

While moving to Seattle was not a hard decision for Gibbs, he admits leaving Texans head coach Gary Kubiak was not easy.

"I enjoyed working with Gary," Gibbs said. "He is one of my favorite people ever.

"He is a great young head coach. The Texans are really close and I wish them nothing but the best."

Gibbs, one of the all-time great offensive line coaches, is heading into his 26th season in the NFL .

"I'm just happy for Alex," Kubiak said. "He's done a great job here."
 
It hurt to lose Kyle, but I don't think we could have found a better replacement. I think the loss of Gibbs is a nonissue given the presence of Benton and now Dennison.

 
Stewy said:
It hurt to lose Kyle, but I don't think we could have found a better replacement. I think the loss of Gibbs is a nonissue given the presence of Benton and now Dennison.
Why does the loss of Kyle S. hurt at all?Neither he, nor Gibbs did much to improve the Texans red zone offense this season (or last season in Gibbs' case), which was our most glaring problem (outside of turnovers).I think a fresh perspective on 'O' is a REALLY good thing.
 
as long as they remain commited to throwing the ball 40 times a game, i'm happy. (matt schaub owner).
Honestly, Kubaik is not as comfortable with that as you might want, although if Andre, Owen and Slaton are healthy then you will still get plenty of passes, yardage and scores. Kubes generally goes conservative if the Texans have any lead and shown any ability to run the ball (which they did not for most of 2009).
 
Why does the loss of Kyle S. hurt at all?
For several reasons.1. He had a good working relationship with Matt Schaub2. He's a young, up-and-coming coach3. He, by all accounts, is a fantastic football mind that called one of the best passing games in the NFL4. His loss, coupled with Kubiak's "lame duck year" could have presented problemsYou ignored the second half of that sentence though. I think Dennison is a great add. From what I have heard, he has a great foundation in the running game, which should give hope that that facet of the offense will improve next year. Yet, there should be some concern as well. Dennison has never called plays, and the players have said that they think it was a very good thing for the team when Gary handed the playcalling over to Kyle. Given Dennison's background, lack of playcalling experience, and the players' sentiment on Gary calling plays, I'm worried that we will either (a) have Gary calling plays again and/or (b) lose some proficiency in the passing game.It should also be interesting to see what, if any, affect this has on personnel decisions. McClain has already said that the Texans will take a RB in the first two rounds this year. I hope and pray that this is something he's hearing from inside the organization because it means we'll be adding a Dwyer or Mathews type, which is what we desparately need.
 
Should be interesting with Kubuak finally having the guys he originally wanted running his offense (Dennison) & defense (Bush).

 
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports...nt/6846344.html

Kubiak maybe getting an extension until 2013, if this report is correct.

Texans owner Bob McNair is working on a multiyear contract extension for coach Gary Kubiak that could be completed as early as next week.

Kubiak has one year left on the five-year, $10 million contract he signed to become the Texans' coach in 2006. Kubiak's new deal is expected to go through the 2013 season and perhaps longer, according to McNair.

“We've been working on our assistant coaches, and we don't have all of them signed, but I think we've pretty much got them resolved, and everybody will be signed through 2012,” McNair said Monday. “Now we're in the process of working on Gary's extension, and I think probably by next week, we'll have his finalized.

“His will run at least one year longer than (2012), maybe more.”

Kubiak and general manager Rick Smith, who joined the Texans in 2006 and signed a four-year extension in 2008, have put together a team that's coming off its best season. The Texans won their last four games and finished 9-7. They missed making the playoffs for the first time on the last day of the season.

“I think Gary's done a good job,” McNair said. “I look at our results, and I look at what some other coaches have done, and I evaluated his performance against others. We have a great foundation in place.”

McNair wasn't going to let Kubiak work under a one-year contract.

“I think continuity's extremely important in building a strong team,” McNair said. “It can impact free agency. It's important when you hire (assistant) coaches. Our new coaches (offensive coordinator Rick Dennison and quarterbacks coach Greg Knapp), who are outstanding, were getting contracts beyond Gary's, and I told him to let them know it wasn't an issue.

“I think we're on the right path. I think we have to keep building on the foundation we have.”

The Texans are going to hire a new strength and rehabilitation coach. Ray Wright, who was elevated last year when Dan Riley was fired, was let go after the season.

McNair watched the AFC's 41-34 victory over the NFC in the Pro Bowl. He saw Matt Schaub win the Most Valuable Player Award and Mario Williams record two sacks.

“I was very proud of them,” McNair said. “I was really pleased for Matt. He played like that all season. Others got a chance to see it.

“Andre (Johnson) and Mario and DeMeco (Ryans) had outstanding games, too. It lets people unfamiliar with the Texans know this is a club on the rise.”

 
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Didn't he just barely avoid getting fired this year? Now they are extending him?
Maybe...from the friend of a friend of a friend of a friend connections, I know from the Texans, Bob McNair likes Kubes a bunch and was looking for a reason NOT to fire him and got one with the 4 game end of season winning streak. McNair is patient to a nearly a fault, so barring this squad looking like the 2005 Capers diaster, Kubiak has at least 2 years and probably 3 (Rick Smith-GM and all the assistants have contracts until 2012 according to the article).
 
My take on Kubiak is this: I think he is going to turn out a lot like Jeff Fisher. He is a players coach, that over time is going to learn that you cannot always be the player's best friend. You have to hold them accountable and demand results. If the results are not there, you have to move on to someone else who can get results. Ultimately, he will have success as a head coach.

I think McNair's patience will be rewarded. If the Texans add one or two pieces on defense, and can hold onto the football when they run it, then I think they are very close to an 11-5 or 12-4 season next year.

 
Texan fans, what are the chances, if you had to guess a percentage, that the Texans take a RB in the 1st-3rd round this year? Do you homers think Foster or Slaton is the team's featured back in 2010?

 
Texan fans, what are the chances, if you had to guess a percentage, that the Texans take a RB in the 1st-3rd round this year? Do you homers think Foster or Slaton is the team's featured back in 2010?
I think after last year Kubiak may decide the Shanahan "any RB can succeed" method may not be the best. I would look for them to take a RB in round 1 or 2, but still see Slaton and Foster getting some touches, just not sure how the mix will be.On Kubiak, I am glad to see him get extended. I think he is a good coach, but is still learning some things about being the head guy. If he can get the team to cut down on the little mistakes, he and the Texans should have success.
 
Didn't he just barely avoid getting fired this year? Now they are extending him?
Maybe...from the friend of a friend of a friend of a friend connections, I know from the Texans, Bob McNair likes Kubes a bunch and was looking for a reason NOT to fire him and got one with the 4 game end of season winning streak. McNair is patient to a nearly a fault, so barring this squad looking like the 2005 Capers diaster, Kubiak has at least 2 years and probably 3 (Rick Smith-GM and all the assistants have contracts until 2012 according to the article).
They had to extend him. They could not let him go into next year a dead man walking. Those situations and teams never do well. Would have been a lost year, IMO.
 
Texan fans, what are the chances, if you had to guess a percentage, that the Texans take a RB in the 1st-3rd round this year? Do you homers think Foster or Slaton is the team's featured back in 2010?
The Texans are seeking to balance the offense, so I would expect them to address the position. Without knowing what happens in the draft ahead of them, I am guessing 75-80%. If you believe what teams say post draft, they were going to take either Coffee and Shone Green in the 3rd in 2009. I don't think either Foster nor Slaton will start the season as the featured or lead back in a committee. Think Slaton will be 12-15 touch guy in a committee, with Foster as 3rd guys in line. IMO (or maybe what I would do), the lead 15-18 carry guy comes from FA or the draft.
 
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports...nt/6847569.html

Texans coach Gary Kubiak has agreed to a new three-year contract that begins this year and runs through 2012.

Rather than sign an extension through 2013, including an option year, Kubiak agreed to a deal that allows the last year of his original 5-year, $10-million contract to be torn up, meaning the new contract will kick in as soon as he signs it.

Kubiak wanted his contract to expire after the 2012 season — the same as his assistant coaches.

"I'm real excited about it," Kubiak said. "Bob (McNair) has always been very good to me. I respect him a great deal. I'm glad he's got the confidence in me to finish what we started when we came here. We've got a great opportunity to have something real special."

Kubiak's news coaches have been signing three-year contracts that expire after the 2012 season. His returning coaches got two-year extensions.

"I want to be on the same path as them," he said. "I think that's important. It shows we're all in this together."
 
Texan fans, what are the chances, if you had to guess a percentage, that the Texans take a RB in the 1st-3rd round this year? Do you homers think Foster or Slaton is the team's featured back in 2010?
The Texans are seeking to balance the offense, so I would expect them to address the position. Without knowing what happens in the draft ahead of them, I am guessing 75-80%. If you believe what teams say post draft, they were going to take either Coffee and Shone Green in the 3rd in 2009. I don't think either Foster nor Slaton will start the season as the featured or lead back in a committee. Think Slaton will be 12-15 touch guy in a committee, with Foster as 3rd guys in line. IMO (or maybe what I would do), the lead 15-18 carry guy comes from FA or the draft.
What FA RB do you think we would take a chance on though? We've pretty much been a build through the draft type team, not one that tries to make the big splash in free agency. Only names that jump out at me are Jerome Harrison, Larry Johnson, Cadillac Williams, Chester Taylor, and Willie Parker. Lendale White would only be a part time RB,so not sure he would help either.
 
Texan fans, what are the chances, if you had to guess a percentage, that the Texans take a RB in the 1st-3rd round this year? Do you homers think Foster or Slaton is the team's featured back in 2010?
The Texans are seeking to balance the offense, so I would expect them to address the position. Without knowing what happens in the draft ahead of them, I am guessing 75-80%. If you believe what teams say post draft, they were going to take either Coffee and Shone Green in the 3rd in 2009. I don't think either Foster nor Slaton will start the season as the featured or lead back in a committee. Think Slaton will be 12-15 touch guy in a committee, with Foster as 3rd guys in line. IMO (or maybe what I would do), the lead 15-18 carry guy comes from FA or the draft.
What FA RB do you think we would take a chance on though? We've pretty much been a build through the draft type team, not one that tries to make the big splash in free agency. Only names that jump out at me are Jerome Harrison, Larry Johnson, Cadillac Williams, Chester Taylor, and Willie Parker. Lendale White would only be a part time RB,so not sure he would help either.
I really hope we dont take a RB in round 1 or 2 unless someone like Matthews or Dwyer somehow is still on the board for our 2nd round pick. I would much rather load up on some DB's. Assuming we resign Pollard, if we can pick a FS and/or another good corner with our first and second the defense could have enough overall talent to take the next step. A healthy Slaton/Foster/Whoever rotation would be fine with me next year. In fact give me Anthony Dixon in rd 3 or 4 and im loving it.
 
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Texan fans, what are the chances, if you had to guess a percentage, that the Texans take a RB in the 1st-3rd round this year? Do you homers think Foster or Slaton is the team's featured back in 2010?
The Texans are seeking to balance the offense, so I would expect them to address the position. Without knowing what happens in the draft ahead of them, I am guessing 75-80%. If you believe what teams say post draft, they were going to take either Coffee and Shone Green in the 3rd in 2009. I don't think either Foster nor Slaton will start the season as the featured or lead back in a committee. Think Slaton will be 12-15 touch guy in a committee, with Foster as 3rd guys in line. IMO (or maybe what I would do), the lead 15-18 carry guy comes from FA or the draft.
What FA RB do you think we would take a chance on though? We've pretty much been a build through the draft type team, not one that tries to make the big splash in free agency. Only names that jump out at me are Jerome Harrison, Larry Johnson, Cadillac Williams, Chester Taylor, and Willie Parker. Lendale White would only be a part time RB,so not sure he would help either.
I think that we are more likely to draft a guy than FA, but I don't rule out the possibility.
 
Texan fans, what are the chances, if you had to guess a percentage, that the Texans take a RB in the 1st-3rd round this year?
I'd say 80%. There are rumblings through a number of media sources in Houston that RB is a high priority with the team. So, the chances that it is addressed in some meaningful way are very, very, very high.Personally, I think it is addressed both through the draft and FA.
Do you homers think Foster or Slaton is the team's featured back in 2010?
Nope. Not a chance, IMO. I think Slaton will be the 3rd down back, and I think Foster will be fighting for a roster spot in TC
 
ziachild07 said:
What FA RB do you think we would take a chance on though? We've pretty much been a build through the draft type team, not one that tries to make the big splash in free agency. Only names that jump out at me are Jerome Harrison, Larry Johnson, Cadillac Williams, Chester Taylor, and Willie Parker. Lendale White would only be a part time RB,so not sure he would help either.
There are several possibilities. Willis McGahee or Chester Taylor. Or, if cut, Maroney, Portis, or Tomlinson would all be viable options.I think we add one of those veteran types to compliment a high draft pick.
 
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports...nt/6847569.html

McLame was late with the coverage but there is additional info on Slaton's recovery

Meanwhile, Kubiak said the prognosis is good for running back Steve Slaton, who underwent surgery two weeks ago.

Slaton underwent a discectomy to relieve pressure on the nerve root that was causing the problem in his spine.

The surgery was performed in Dallas by Dr. Drew Dossett. The Texans said the surgery went well and that recovery will take from four to six months. Kubiak said Slaton will avoid contact until training camp.

 
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I'm thinking that Slaton is more suited to a Reggie Bush type role. We need a true #1 RB and right now we don't have one.

 
What FA RB do you think we would take a chance on though? We've pretty much been a build through the draft type team, not one that tries to make the big splash in free agency. Only names that jump out at me are Jerome Harrison, Larry Johnson, Cadillac Williams, Chester Taylor, and Willie Parker. Lendale White would only be a part time RB,so not sure he would help either.
There are several possibilities. Willis McGahee or Chester Taylor. Or, if cut, Maroney, Portis, or Tomlinson would all be viable options.I think we add one of those veteran types to compliment a high draft pick.
LT back to Texas might be interesting.
 
http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=6059

Kubial Press conference

Texans owner Bob McNair and head coach Gary Kubiak spoke to the media at Reliant Stadium on Wednesday during a 30-minute press conference to announce a new contract for Kubiak. Their remarks are below.

Texans owner Bob McNair

(opening remarks) "Thanks for coming out. As many of you know because we've had conversations during the season, you've asked questions about what we're doing and what our plans are and what have you, and we've indicated to you that at the end of the year we sit down and evaluate our team's performance, look at our individual players, we talk about our coaches, we talk about what we're doing in terms of the draft and what our results have been there, and then we start looking forward into the next year. And so at this point in time, I thought it'd be a good opportunity for us to get together for a few minutes and give you our evaluation of things and then talk a little bit about where we think we are and where we're going, and then we'll open it up for questions.

"All of us were disappointed that we didn't make the playoffs. We really felt that we were going to do that and we should do that, and of course, we lost a tie-breaker. Two other teams with similar records won the tie-breaker, Baltimore and the Jets. Unfortunately, we sort of left it up to other teams, left the final results in the hands of other teams rather than keep it in our hands. And so going forward, that's one of the things that is a goal this year is to be in that same position to be in the playoffs but not have our fortune rest in the hands of other teams. We want to try to control our own destiny.

"In terms of looking back at the year and comparing what we've done this past year with what we've done previously, I think there were a lot of good things that happened. I think we made a lot of progress. First of all, we had a chance to win 15 out of our 16 games. That's never happened to us before. I think in terms of the excitement, I don't think anyone can question whether those 15 games were exciting games or not. They were as exciting as they can be.

"One of the things that we're learning as a team is to be mentally tougher so that in those close games, we're going to be able to come out the victor and not have it go the other way. I think we've made progress there, and I'm pleased with the way it's going. I think we're developing some leadership on the team. We have a very young team. I think I looked at the roster during the New England game, and I think in terms of age, I think the average age of our starters versus theirs, we were almost four years younger across the board. That's a big difference. We're getting some players now, though, who have been around, have played for a while, developed some maturity and can provide the kind of leadership that we need in those close games, and I think we're going to see the results of that.

"In prior years, we've never had the number of Pro Bowl players that we had this year. We had five players. The prior year it was three, and that was the most we'd had. Before that, it was two. And I think they're all good, solid players. I think in terms of looking at what we did offensively and defensively, as you know, in the first three games from a defensive standpoint, we had real problems. (Defensive coordinator) Frank Bush made some changes and he got that situation turned around, and we wound up I think the last 13 games of the season, I think we were in the top five. Offensively, we have done extremely well, also.

"Defensively, going back four years, in 2006, we ranked 24th in the NFL. This year, we improved that to 13th. In terms of offense, in 2006, we ranked 28th, and we went from 28th to fourth this year in total offense and number one in passing offense. So we've made a lot of improvement there and we're going to have to keep improving, but I think Frank Bush has done a fine job for us and he was new in that role. I'm sure that he learned a lot during this first year, but it looks like he's going to be a very fine coordinator.

"One of the most important things, when you look at teams that are successful – and this is my analysis; others might not necessarily agree with it – but I think that one of the most important things is to have continuity. I think that the most disruptive thing that you can do is to go in and every two or three years change your coaching staff. When you do that, the new coach might have different schemes that he wants to employ. All of a sudden, the players you have don't fit that scheme and now they have to go through and change the players out and it just sets you back several years. The teams that have done very well on a consistent basis have been the ones that had a good group of coaches but had confidence in the coaches and stuck with the coaches and had stability, continuity, and that is of great benefit to the players and the whole organization, and so I think that's extremely important to us.

"I think that we have a very fine coaching staff. I think (head coach) Gary (Kubiak) has done a very good job. One of the things that we did, we looked at what our team has done during the last four years, what our record has been, and what the record was in the prior four years, and we looked at every other team on the same basis. And in terms of that, you've got to acknowledge that a tremendous amount of improvement has been made, and I think Gary is primarily responsible for that. I think (general manager) Rick Smith is, too, in terms of upgrading our personnel.

"In terms of this year, and I think every year, I think Gary has tried to strengthen our coaching staff. And I think the sign of an outstanding head coach is a coach who will look at his coaching staff and try to determine how he can strengthen that staff, as opposed to having an overwhelming loyalty to the staff and not being willing to consider making any changes. Gary has been willing to do that and has done that, and this year we've got Rick Dennison coming in as an offensive coordinator. Rick has been in the role before and he was a player in the league, he's an experienced person. We think he's going to do a fine job. He and Gary have played together, worked together and know each other well. We've got Greg Knapp, who's going to be the new quarterback coach. Greg has worked with Matt Schaub before and he's been a coordinator in Atlanta and Oakland and Seattle, so he brings a lot of experience. So I think that we have strengthened our coaching staff, and so I'm quite pleased with that and I'm pleased that we were able to finalize our contractual negotiations with Gary and with our coaches so everybody will be on the same timeline. We'll go out through the 2012 season, and I think that makes everyone feel very good about the situation.

"In terms of where we are and what we need, Rick Smith was going to be with us this morning but his flight was delayed. He was flying back from the East Coast and there's bad weather there and he's had trouble getting out. But we need some more depth in the center of our line. You saw what happened this past year. We lost our two starting guards, and then of course we lost (TE) Owen Daniels. But it did affect us and it hurt us in our running game and we certainly need to get some more depth there, and you're also well aware of the fact that we need some more running backs. So those are some things that we're going to be looking at offensively. And defensively, we'd still like a little more help in the center of our defensive line with another defensive tackle if we could improve ourselves there, and we can always use more cornerbacks and we could use another safety.

"But the good news is that we have a foundation in place, and we don't have to go out now and try to establish the foundation, which is what we've been doing for the last eight years. We have the foundation now. We have a Super Bowl – I'd say he's a Super Bowl quarterback – in Matt Schaub, who was the MVP of the Pro Bowl. We have a guy who can I think take us to the Super Bowl. We've got an All-Pro receiver in Andre Johnson who many think is the best in the league; I certainly do. We've got some defensive players that are outstanding in Mario (Williams) and our linebackers, DeMeco Ryans and with Brian Cushing, and we've got some young cornerbacks coming on that are looking very good. So we've got some outstanding players and we just have to keep building on that, and this year I think we're going to continue to see improvement.

"Bottom line is, in evaluating where we were and looking at our coaching situation, I believe Gary can take us to the Super Bowl, and that's why we tore up his existing contract and extended him. I think we're making progress and I think we're going to continue to make progress. So I'm excited about the upcoming year. Right now, our scouts have been working on free agents. There are not as many free agents out this year because of the change, this being the last year in the CBA, so those players that would've been free agents after four years are not free agents; it would only be after six years. So that reduces the number of free agents considerably, so there aren't going to be as many unrestricted free agents out there. But the scouts are working on it, and now the coaches are in and they're looking at all these players and we'll go through that process and see if there's anybody out there that'll strengthen us, and if so we'll try to bring them in. Then, we go right from that into the combine and to looking at the draft, so we're excited about the year. I think our fans are excited and I think they see the promise that the Texans hold for them and I think that we're going to start realizing that promise. So with that, we'll open it up for questions if you want to ask Gary any questions or if you want to ask me."

(on why he chose to extend head coach Gary Kubiak's contract to 2012) "Number one, we were bringing in some new coaches and to bring in new coaches you can't bring them in on a one year contract. That doesn't make sense to them. So it was to provide some stability so that they could see that this group would be in place for an extended period of time. That's the reason we decided to do it."

(on how he will treat an uncapped year) "We'll operate the same way. In other words, basically the cap numbers are sort of budget numbers also. We have to live within our means just as you do. So we won't change what we do this year in terms of that. So it's a question of how you allocate your money. If you've got a set number of dollars, if you go out and spend a lot of money on free agents, there's less money to spend on the other players. So the question is how do you get the most bang for your buck. Typically, what I believe, and I think (head coach) Gary (Kubiak) and (general manager) Rick (Smith) feel the same way, typically what you see in the free agent market is a person that's had their best contract year, period. Maybe two or three years. But they've gone through their prime, they're at their peak, and if anything they might be beyond their peak at the time their contract expires and they're available. So when you go out and sign one of these players, you run the risk of paying them more than anyone else in the league will pay them, that's the only reason you got them, and they've started going downhill. And so you've tied up a lot of your dollars in a player that's not going to be as productive and that leaves you fewer dollars then to go out at work with younger players. So that's why we typically don't do that. Now, (DE) Antonio Smith was a great player for us, but he was a young player and everyone felt comfortable that he was highly motivated and physically he had not peaked, or was not going down. He might be at his peak, but not going down. So we'll look, but typically people that are good, solid players offer a better value than they guy that has been the star player."

(on if they'll rely more on the draft than on free agency) "Yes. We've outlined basically what we're going to be looking for and it'll be a matter of the best athlete in one of those positions at the time our draft number comes up, and at this point we don't know exactly what it is. We believe in building through the draft. And I think you (Houston Chronicle) did an article on how the Colts put their roster together and how the Saints put theirs together, and I've looked at that and compared it with our roster and they're very similar, with the exception that the Saints signed more unrestricted agents than either the Colts or we have. But in terms of draft picks, I think we had 14 starters that came from the draft and that's what the Colts had, and I think the Saints have 12. So that gives you a pretty good idea of where we are. But we believe you have to build through the draft, and we'll continue doing that."

(on watching the Super Bowl and wishing the Texans were playing) "Number one, I'm convinced we will be there, and we're not that far away from it. I think if we'd have made the playoffs this year, we'd gone a long way. I'm convinced of that. I was very happy for New Orleans. It meant a lot to their city. Also the fact that we're developing a closer relationship with the Saints. They came over and practiced with us this year, and afterwards (head coach) Gary (Kubiak) made the comment and said ‘Man, that's a fine team.' All of us were very impressed with them then. We knew they were going to be good. When they left, (Saints head coach) Sean Payton, I congratulated him on the job they'd done and what have you, and he said ‘Well, there's a good chance that we'll be meeting you again.' The only place that would have happened was in the Super Bowl, so he respects our organization and our team and the job that Gary has done. They're a fine football team and a lot of what they did was as a result of creating turnovers. Difference makers. They did it again in the Super Bowl with that interception. That's what we're looking for. We've got some of those difference makers now. We just need to step it up and get some of those turnovers, and it makes all the difference in the world. I can imagine how this city will go crazy, just as New Orleans has gone crazy over winning the Super Bowl. We'll be over and will practice with them next year. I've talked with (Saints owner) Tom Benson, and we want to improve and strengthen the relationship between these two teams. It's a natural rivalry and we want to try to build on that. One way we do it is by practicing with each other in preseason and playing each other in preseason on a regular basis. But I'm very happy for them. I'm happy for Sean Payton. I think he's a great coach. They've got some terrific players. It was really something good for New Orleans."

Texans head coach Gary Kubiak

(on what it was like while he watched the Super Bowl) "I know how difficult it is to get to that football game. One thing about our league, is there's only one team standing at the end of each season that accomplishes that goal, that feels great about it. Everybody else came up short, somehow, some way. I've been fortunate. I've been a part of it a few times. Like I said, I'd love to see this place be a part of it someday. That's what we're working toward. But everybody's got that opportunity. I think our opportunity is heading in the right direction. We just have got to continue to do that. The most important thing for our football team and our organization is to stay focused on the work. It's easy to talk about where we want to get to, or where we want to go. But we've got to stay focused on the work. Right now the biggest part of that work is the free agency and getting ready for that and the Draft, and continuing to strengthen our football team."

Texans owner Bob McNair

(on if the Texans are giving away any advantages of being a high-revenue team) "No, I don't feel that we're giving away any advantage. We've done a lot of study. I was chairman of a committee that (former NFL Commissioner Paul) Tagliabue appointed five or six years ago, a special committee on league economics. One of the things we studied was the correlation between the pay scale and performance. The thing that was interesting was, there was no correlation. The teams that had the highest payrolls did not have the highest performance. Some of the teams that had some of the lowest payrolls, had higher performance than those. So there was really no correlation there. I think part of that is because if you build through the draft, you're going to have younger players. If you do a good job on the draft, then you've got good players. If you've got good players who aren't being paid as much money then you still have some funds to go out and get free agents if you think they're of value, without having the largest payroll. We're still around the top of the league. We're certainly in the top quartile in terms of what we pay, and we'll still be in that same range, but you've got other supposedly small market teams that have gone out and spent a lot more money than we have. Oakland is one, and look at their performance. We're not going to knowingly give up any advantage, I can assure you of that."

(on if he expects 2010 to be the only season without a salary cap) "That's just my personal opinion, yes. I think it probably is, and I'm optimistic that we'll get something worked out. I'm not on the management committee; I'm on the finance committee, and it's the management committee that's actually doing the negotiation – and the commissioner. I know they're doing everything they can to resolve the issue."

Texans head coach Gary Kubiak

(on his reaction when owner Bob McNair approached him about re-doing his contract) "I don't know if I was surprised. It was just part of our discussions as we move forward. I talk to Bob every week throughout our season about what we're doing, how we're doing it, what direction we're heading. I think Bob has taken a hard look at where we were four years ago as an organization and as a football team and where we're at today and with that, made a decision that we're headed in the right direction as a coaching staff. I'm just very excited to have the opportunity, very thankful to Bob and his family. I want to finish what I started. We've still got a long, long way to go, but I'm enjoying it. I'm enjoying the work, I'm enjoying the challenge. We've got a big-time challenge coming ahead this year, schedule-wise, and our division will always be a challenge, but I think we've got the right group of guys to do it and I'm very excited about our young football team. I'm just thankful for Bob to continue to give me that opportunity."

(on how much he will be making) "I don't know (laughing)."

Texans owner Bob McNair

"Gary said it wasn't enough and I said it was too much (laughing)."

Texans owner Bob McNair

(on the team's plans regarding CB Dunta Robinson's contract status) "Well, we haven't addressed that yet, because right now we're really looking at other free agents. That's something that will be addressed later. We're going to work on free agents right now. (General manager) Rick Smith will be looking at that and visiting with (head coach) Gary (Kubiak) and seeing what the situation is."

(on whether teams will re-sign their free agents before March 5, not knowing whether there will be a salary cap in place) "I think the guys that are already under contract, we don't have a time pressure on us there. We have plenty of time. A lot of what we do will be dependent upon who we might sign from free agency and who we get in the draft and what our needs are as we go forward. We won't look at that until later."

Texans head coach Gary Kubiak

(on if he still believes that the team has to be able to run the ball well in order to be successful) "Yeah, I do. I'm talking strictly for our football team. I know that we have one heck of a quarterback right now and I think we could go out there and throw it with anybody in the business if we went out there 45-50 times a game. My point is I don't think that's what's best for our football team in the long run. I think we've got to get more physical as a football team. We've got to find a way to get our defense off the field more; they were on the field too much. We've got to be more dominant late in football games. In games that we lost, we've talked about all these close games that we lost, it was because we couldn't hang on to the football late in some of those games, so I just think it's very important to the development of our team taking the next step. As you know, I've always been committed to running the football and that's not going to change. We're going to find a way to get better. It wasn't good enough last year."

(on what he believes is the team's biggest need right now) "I don't know. I'm not avoiding it; (owner) Bob (McNair) talked about our needs offensively, our needs defensively. That will take place, to me, you look at free agency. OK, how do you fill some holes in free agency? That's the first thing that we've got to figure out right now. So if we're able to fill a few holes in our football team, then our draft needs could change. If we're not, then they could be altered that way also, so I think we're just looking at the strengths and weaknesses of our team. We've got to evaluate how free agency might help our team and after we get done with that, then we move to the draft. But to put a finger on one thing, the one thing is that we all get better. I know that's a pretty vague answer, but we have to all get better."

(on this year's free agent class) "I'm actually going up there this afternoon where we're going to meet on that as coaches. I think what's taken place is there's a big quality of football player in year four and five, which are prime years in a football player's career, that have all of a sudden been taken out of this equation. So you're sitting there looking at that book that you normally look at each year and it's a lot less, and you're looking at guys that are six-, seven-, eight-, nine-year players. Teams don't let players get to that point if they're quality starters, so we're looking at just a totally different list this time around than we've ever looked at in my time in the National Football League. How we deal with that, how we help our football team – we can still help our football team, I don't have any doubt about that – but how we go about doing that I think will be a lot different than how it's been in the past."

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http://blogs.chron.com/texanschick/2010/02...ove_the_st.html

Daniel Jeremiah of 'Move the Sticks' talks Texans

One of my favorite things to do on the blog is asking interesting people with a reasoned point of view to comment on Texans-specific topics. It gives me food for thought, and I hope it does the same for you.

Today's Q&A is with Daniel Jeremiah. Note that all player links were added by me to CBS Sports Draft Page.

Q: For readers who don't know you, please tell them a little bit about your background and where they can find you on the web.

A: I spent 6 years scouting in the NFL. The first 4 years were spent in Baltimore with the Ravens and the last 2 years with the Cleveland Browns. I was only with the Browns for 1 draft and then found myself out of work after the regime change and arrival of new HC Eric Mangini.

Suddenly faced with a lot of time on my hands, I was encouraged by a few of my friends to create a twitter account to discuss all things NFL. My "tweets" quickly became popular and led me to believe that there was an audience out there that was interested in a scout's perspective on things. I decided to develop a website to expand on some of the topics I was discussing on twitter. I currently have over 12,000 followers on twitter and the website is gaining traction as well. You can check out the website at MoveTheSticks.com or follow me on twitter at Twitter.com/movethesticks.

Q: On Twitter, you wrote, "I believe this next season will be the breakthrough year for the Texans... Experience will catch up to their talent and they win 12 games." Pretty ambitious prediction given their schedule for next year. Care to discuss this more?

A: First of all, it's impossible to predict how tough a schedule will be in the NFL. Things can change so quickly. Teams that are high can fall down quickly just as teams that are low are capable of jumping to the top in a heartbeat. I just have a feeling that this Texans team is ready to take the next step. For 2-3 years, everyone said the Cardinals were going to take the next step. They would have all of this preseason hype and then their young team would fizzle and disappoint. However, eventually their experience level caught up to their talent level and you have seen them take off over the last 2 seasons. I really believe this Texans team is at the same point where their experience and talent have come together.

Q: Since Gary Kubiak has been coach, the Texans have acquired their #1 positional need each year in the first round of the draft (2006-Mario Williams, DE; 2007-Amobi Okoye, DT; 2008-Duane Brown, LT; 2009-Brian Cushing, LB) though they have always discussed taking best player available. It seems to me that this year, their top draft need isn't as obvious. Needs listed by fans in no particular order include running back, safety, guard, center, corner, defensive tackle, defensive end, punter, kicker, but what I think fans want for most of these positions is quality experienced play at those spots. (Bob McNair in his recent press conference listed middle of the offensive line depth, running back, defensive tackle, safety, cornerback). At the spot where the Texans will be picking in the first round, who do you see as impact players that the Texans may be interested in?

A: I am a firm believer in building your team to compete/win your division. The Colts are the class of this division and to overtake them, you need to be able to matchup against that high powered offense.

The Texans need another edge rusher and playmakers in the secondary. A player that seems like a perfect fit for the Texans is Texas Safety Earl Thomas. He isn't a physical run defender but he is outstanding in coverage. Texas slides him down to play the nickel on third down and he has CB cover skills in the slot. He is outstanding roaming in zone coverage and has the range/ball skills to make a lot of plays. I think he is an ideal compliment to Bernard Pollard's style of play and would give the Texans a defender to matchup with Dallas Clark. Another player that makes sense is USC DE Everson Griffen. He is an explosive pass rusher that would give the Texans 2 of the fastest, most athletic edge players in football.

Q: It's not much of a secret that the Texans will be looking for running back. What backs in this draft do you think would be a good fit for the Texans one-cut, zone scheme, good pass blockers and could help them with> short yardage runs in particular. (Last year, they said after the draft, they were targeting Coffee and Green, but those players were gone before the Texans picked.in the third).

A: One of my favorite players in this draft class is Tennessee RB Montario Hardesty. He does have durability issues from earlier in his career but he stayed healthy and played outstanding this season. He isn't a flashy runner but he is decisive, illusive and has the power to break tackles. He also catches the ball naturally and is a willing pass blocker. He would be an excellent fit in this offense! Most teams have him in the 3rd round area but if he runs well at the combine, you will probably have to spend a 2nd to reel him in.

Q:The Texans have made it no secret that they want to improve their bottom of the league running game next year. Though part of the problems at this spot were from running backs not holding on to the ball, the injuries to both starting guards made it remarkable that they could move the ball at all. Are there any guards that you believe may be a particularly good fit in the Rick Dennison-version of zone blocking.

A: Last year was the year to pick up interior offensive lineman. There were a ton of Guard and Centers that were NFL ready and plugged into starting starting lineups immediately. This year it's a very uninspiring group. There are 2 elite players: Florida Center Maurkice Pouncey and Idaho Guard Mike Iupati. Both of those players are likely 1st round picks that will fit in any system and start right away. One player to keep an eye on as a possible 3rd round pick is Illinois OG Jon Asamoah. He isn't nearly as talented as the two top guys but he has good feet/balance and is NFL ready.

Q: Since Gary Kubiak has been rebuilding the team, the Texans have repeatedly traded down in the draft and have not traded up. Mostly because they had so many positions to fill and not enough picks to fill them. Now, they already have many young players on the roster they are still developing. Are there any players at the top of this draft that the Texans or other teams may be particularly interested in trading up to get? (Texan fans are still traumatized for trading up to get Jason Babin during the Casserly-Capers years).

A: The one player that might be tempting for the Texans to go up and get is Clemson RB CJ Spiller. He has rare speed/explosiveness and is much better in the passing game than Chris Johnson was coming out of East Carolina. I can picture the Texans spreading Andre Johnson out wide, Owen Daniels lines up in the slot and then you motion this guy out of the backfield, WOW! (Steph note: Texan fans would faint dead away from shock and surprise. We are accustomed to eat-your-vegetables sorts of picks in the first round, except for that Andre Johnson guy).

Q: The Texans pass rush numbers have been anemic in recent years despite tons of money spent at that position. The run defense stats have improved but a number of people would like for the team to be stouter up front. The Texans say that they don't have anything against large defensive tackles, but they want guys who can move. Many 4-3 teams like to reload linemen each year. The team was very fortunate that Mario Williams continued to play despite a bum shoulder. Are there any particular defensive linemen in this draft who would be a good fit for the team?

A: I really like Cal DT Tyson Alualu and think he would be a great fit for the Texans. He can play 3 of the 4 spots on the DL. He is an excellent run defender with quick feet and hands. He's a productive inside pass rusher that can push the pocket and plays with relentless effort. He had a fantastic week of practice at the Sr Bowl. The Texans would have one of the most versatile DL's in the league. Mario can play either side, Smith can play LDE and move inside on pass downs while Alualu can play NT, 3 tech or LDE. You can never go wrong with DL that have size, strength, motor and versatility.

Q: On Twitter, you said this about the off-season: "Talked to several NFL execs today and all of them are anxious to see who hits the market..get the feeling some surprises are coming." Seems to me that to take the Texans to the next level, it would be handy to have some free agents who are better than the guys currently on the roster. Often easier said than done. Any names that might become available that you think my work well for the Texans?

A: This FA period is going to be very interesting. I really have no idea what players might pop into the market. There are some guys with contract issues that could force their team's hand by not renegotiating. One such player is Arizona FS Antrel Rolle. He is due an enormous bonus and the Cardinals would likely prefer to renegotiate a new long term deal. He would be very attractive to the Texans if he were to hit the market. He would fill that ball-hawking, playmaking safety role for this young defense.

Q: Any question I didn't ask you that I should have?

A: This draft doesn't feature any freakish talents at CB but there is excellent depth at the position. At the top of the list is Florida CB Joe Haden. He is a better version of Cincinnati Bengals CB Leon Hall. After him, you have Kyle Wilson from Boise and then a pack of 6-8 guys that teams will rank differently. The Texans will miss out on Haden but will likely have a shot at Wilson when they are on the clock in RD 1. They will have to make the determination if he is worth taking at that spot or should they just wait and catch the tail end of that group of 8 guys in RD 2.
 
http://www.houstontexans.com/blog/index.asp?post_id=956

Last week, Texans coach Gary Kubiak went on the air for a lengthy interview with Barry Warner and Brad Davies of SportsRadio 610 AM. Now that we've put the interview up on HoustonTexans.com, I figured it'd be prudent to type out their conversation for those who'd rather read it than listen to it.

Without further ado:

SportsRadio 610: "Congratulations on your contract extension. How long had this been in the works?"

Gary Kubiak: “You know what, it just happened over the course of the last week. We started dealing with all our (assistant) coaches first, so we got all our guys settled down and we had a couple coaches to hire, and then Bob (McNair) and I basically did it last week. I just feel very fortunate. I appreciate his family giving me a chance to continue what we’ve started, and I’m just looking forward to getting to work and trying to make this football team a couple of steps better so that we can all enjoy some playoff games.”

SR610: "You’re 7-17 in three years in the division. I’m saying right now that when this football team goes to the playoffs next year, you’ve got to set your sights on going at least 4-2 in the AFC South."

GK: “Well, it’s a tough division. The problem in the division, everybody’s had trouble catching that one team (Indianapolis), so that’s what’s been so difficult because of their dominance and their quarterback and the way he’s played. But you’re exactly right: We didn’t play well enough in our division last year. It wasn’t like we played poorly – we were in every football game – but you’ve got to find a way to win those games. We had our chances in some very tight football games against every one those teams, and we’ve got to get tougher at the end of these football games and find a way to get out of there with a ‘W.’”

SR610: "Playing in a division as tough as the AFC South, and we know it’s not going to get any easier, how do you try to break that string? What do you look to do differently next season against divisional teams?"

GK: “First off, we know it’s not going to change. Indy’s not going to change. As long as number 18’s (Peyton Manning) running that football team, they’re not going anywhere. Tennessee’s a young football team, Jacksonville’s a young football team, we’re a very young team. We had ourselves in position to be successful last year. I think the biggest thing we’ve got to do is just concentrate on finding a way to get a step better, and whatever that is. Is that running the ball better? Is that playing better defense? We’ve got to find a way, like I said earlier, to get out of those places, those road games, with wins, and take care of our business at home. We were 0-3 in our division at home, and that’s not going to get you where you want to go.”

SR610: "You brought up the running game. Tell us about Steve Slaton and that situation."

GK: “He’s doing good, guys. They performed surgery on him. There was a time where they didn’t think they’d have to, but they went ahead and did some work. I wish I could describe exactly what they did, but he will be in OTAs, he’ll be in all the offseason work. He will not be able to be a part of any contact and should be cleared for training camp, so all systems are go. There shouldn’t be anything holding him back as long as he recovers correctly.”

SR610: "When you look at the upcoming season, how exciting is it for you to know you’ve got Brian Cushing, number one, but number two, with Connor Barwin having a year under his belt, what that’s going to do to finally give you a pass rush?"

GK: “To me, the most encouraging thing right now about our football team is the progress that our defense made from Week 4 until the end of the season. They probably played about as well as anybody in football, they gave us a chance to win every week, and yet they’re very, very young. Our youngest player was probably one of the leaders of that happening in Brian. So you put Connor with him going into his second year, and he’s really only played defensive football for two years, so he should be much better. And now we’ve got a chance to go add to it, so it should only take a step forward. Frank’s (Bush) going to be better. I really like our coaching staff. Our defense, to me, if they play the way they’ve played the last 12 weeks, we ought to be in every football game.”

SR610: "You had to be thrilled to see what Matt Schaub was able to accomplish at the Pro Bowl. Granted, it was the Pro Bowl. Still, that had to be a thrill for you, right?"

GK: “Yeah, it really was. I didn’t get to see the whole game – saw the first half – but first off, to get a chance to go, I think it really helps players because they go there and they feel like, ‘Hey, I belong in this group of players. This is the type of player I am.’ So we’re getting back a more confident player, a guy who feels like a Pro Bowler, one of the best players in the league. And then you add what he did in the game to that and it can only make him more confident. So I’m really proud of all those guys. I wish Cushing would’ve been able to play in the game. But they represented us very well, and we should all be proud of that here in Houston.”

SR610: "What did you see last year, and what do Greg Knapp and Rick Dennison look at right now, in Dan Orlovsky that made you feel he was the apple of your eye last year and why you’re confident that he can do the job as a backup?"

GK: “Well, what we saw is we saw basically the same characteristics that we saw in Matt. Size-wise, the type of athlete that he is, smart, the arm. He’s obviously behind Matt from the standpoint that he hasn’t played a lot of football. He obviously hasn’t played at the level of football that Matt has played, so I think it’s about experience with him. He’s got to get a lot better. I’m trying to really improve his standard as a player and how he practices and how he goes about his business, because I think that’s what great players do. They’re all talented, but some of them just have a standard that sets them apart in how they go about doing their work. So that’s mine and Greg’s and Rick’s challenge with him, but if we can get that done, we’ve got a fine, fine player.”

SR610: "The running game obviously struggled and suffered this season for various reasons. If things stayed the same and Steve Slaton was your featured back going into next year, would you feel comfortable with that?"

GK: “Well, you always have to look at going back to work with the players you’ve got. It’s easy to sit here in free agency and say, ‘Well, we can go land a couple of players or we can go get this in the draft,’ but you never know what’s going to happen. So the most important thing that we do is get better with the people we’ve got. Steve played fine football two years ago. Obviously, he struggled this year. (Arian) Foster came on and did some good things for us. The bottom line, we’ve got to get better running the ball, however we do it. We’ve got to get better up front, better in the backfield, better as coaches. I really think if you look at all these close games that we lost, a lot of that was due to the fact that we couldn’t close games on the field running the ball. So that is a high priority to me in this offseason, and for us as a team.”

SR610: "How good can Jacoby Jones be if he puts it all together?"

GK: “I think he can be as good as he wants to. Let’s give him some credit here. He came from a very small program, a small school (Lane College). The step he’s taken in the National Football League is huge. He’s had his days of immaturity and those types of things, but the one thing about him he’s a good kid. He’s trying to do it the right way. We just need more consistency from a standpoint of on the field, off the field. I’ve probably had more meetings with this young man than I’ve had with my three boys, but that’s OK, because I really think in the long haul this guy’s going to do some great things for this city. He should be a 1 or 2 in this league. If he takes care of his business, that’s the type of player he can be.”

SR610: "Is there a sense of relief for you at all knowing that you’re not going to have to answer questions about your job security next season, and how much if any pressure you feel to live up to that new contract?"

GK: “Well, I think as a coach, you’re going to have to always answer those questions. In this business, 16 teams win on Sunday, 16 teams get beat. It’s the greatest league in the world and the most competitive, and if you don’t understand that going in, it’s going to drive you crazy. I think I understand that. Do I feel pressure because of a contract? No, I don’t feel pressure because of the contract. I feel pressure I grew up in the Heights and I’m a Houston kid and I want to see this team win and I want to see this team get into the playoffs and everybody get to experience the thing that we just saw New Orleans experience. So there’s no more pressure put on me than I put on myself, but you know what, I’m going to enjoy what I’m doing. I’m going to enjoy each day of work, I’m going to give it everything I’ve got. We’ll do that as a staff, and if we do that, everything’ll be just fine.”

SR610: "After the game, our phone lines were flooded and people were saying, 'Well, Sean Payton was hired four years ago, just like Kubiak, and he’s been to two championships and now one Super Bowl.' What do you have to say when you hear that?"

GK: “Well, he’s done a hell of a job. He’s a good football coach. They’ve done a great job revamping that roster. They made up a lot of ground really quick. They went out and took a chance on a quarterback. Just like we did in my second year here, they did right off the bat, and both of our quarterbacks have panned out. And if you’ve got a good quarterback in this league, you should be able to make some headway. Heck, I’m proud of Sean. He’s a good friend of mine. I’m happy for the city of New Orleans. I’ve got to worry about the Texans, so I’ve got to do a better job and I’m looking forward to doing that.”

SR610: "Is it playoffs or bust next year? Is that the mentality? Is that a realistic expectation for every Texans fan listening right now?"

GK: “Oh, it’s very realistic. I’ve been thinking that way for a couple of years. I think we had a lot more work to do a couple of years ago, but with our football team right now and what we’re capable of doing, if we go and improve ourselves throughout this offseason, there’s no reason why we shouldn’t feel that way. But you know what, I stay focused on the work. It’s easy to sit here and talk to you guys and talk to John McClain or whoever I talk to and start talking about what we’re going to do, but I’m just going to stay focused on doing the work because if we get the work done, then that’ll give us the best chance.”

 
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports...nt/6882589.html

The Texans have informed cornerback Dunta Robinson they will not be using the franchise tag on him for a second consecutive year, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.

There will be no more negotiations for a new contract, which means Robinson will become an unrestricted free agent on March 5 and will be able to sign with any team.

Robinson, a first-round draft choice in 2004 who played six seasons with the Texans, earned $9.957 million last year when he was designated as the franchise player. Before he was franchised, Robinson turned down an offer that would have guaranteed him $23 million.

Robinson started every game last season and covered the opponent's best receiver. Because free agency will increase from four to six years without a salary cap, Robinson should be one of the most attractive free agents on the market.

Without Robinson, cornerback becomes a priority position for the Texans. Expect them to use a high draft choice on a replacement.

Glover Quin starts at one spot. Jacques Reeves and Brice McCain played better than the other reserve corners last season. Fred Bennett was a disappointment, and Antwaun Molden was injured much of the season.

 
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports...nt/6882589.html

The Texans have informed cornerback Dunta Robinson they will not be using the franchise tag on him for a second consecutive year, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.

There will be no more negotiations for a new contract, which means Robinson will become an unrestricted free agent on March 5 and will be able to sign with any team.

Robinson, a first-round draft choice in 2004 who played six seasons with the Texans, earned $9.957 million last year when he was designated as the franchise player. Before he was franchised, Robinson turned down an offer that would have guaranteed him $23 million.

Robinson started every game last season and covered the opponent's best receiver. Because free agency will increase from four to six years without a salary cap, Robinson should be one of the most attractive free agents on the market.

Without Robinson, cornerback becomes a priority position for the Texans. Expect them to use a high draft choice on a replacement.

Glover Quin starts at one spot. Jacques Reeves and Brice McCain played better than the other reserve corners last season. Fred Bennett was a disappointment, and Antwaun Molden was injured much of the season.
weren't they pretty high on molden at one point? is it that he's never healthy?
 
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports...nt/6882589.html

The Texans have informed cornerback Dunta Robinson they will not be using the franchise tag on him for a second consecutive year, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.

There will be no more negotiations for a new contract, which means Robinson will become an unrestricted free agent on March 5 and will be able to sign with any team.

Robinson, a first-round draft choice in 2004 who played six seasons with the Texans, earned $9.957 million last year when he was designated as the franchise player. Before he was franchised, Robinson turned down an offer that would have guaranteed him $23 million.

Robinson started every game last season and covered the opponent's best receiver. Because free agency will increase from four to six years without a salary cap, Robinson should be one of the most attractive free agents on the market.

Without Robinson, cornerback becomes a priority position for the Texans. Expect them to use a high draft choice on a replacement.

Glover Quin starts at one spot. Jacques Reeves and Brice McCain played better than the other reserve corners last season. Fred Bennett was a disappointment, and Antwaun Molden was injured much of the season.
weren't they pretty high on molden at one point? is it that he's never healthy?
Exactly. he has the physical tools and played well on special teams, but has missed way more games than he has suited up for.
 
Any fellow Texans fans care to share their offseason wishlist? I was kind of hoping we'd draft Earl Thomas to replace Eugene Wilson, but with RB, DT, and now CB being primary needs that seems less likely. I think we'd be better off addressing those areas and sticking with Wilson and Barber for the time being at FS. Any chance we target someone like Leigh Bodden to replace Dunta at CB in free agency? I'd also like an upgrade at one guard spot (I am not a fan of Kasey Studdard) and let Caldwell, White, and whoever else (I would assume Brisiel would be back, not so sure about Pitts) battle it out for the other spot. Myers could be upgraded as well at C but I think these other needs are more pressing...

ETA: I do not want one of those old F/A RBs either. I think we need one to team with Slaton pretty early in the draft...

 
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Too many smaller holes, not enough picks now. DT & FS we can probably get by for another year with what we've got now. I know they want to upgrade but the interior O'line is not something I would expect them to address heavily this year with both starting guards coming back from injury. Maybe we could add a late round guy for depth and hope he pans out.

To get a quality DB out of the draft, it's pretty much spending our 1st rounder. 2nd or possibly even the 3rd on a RB depending on what these guys look like at the combine. I think my top wishlist for now would be the 1st on a corner, 2nd on a DT, 3rd on a RB. That addresses all the major needs. Will it end up that way? Likely not.

So have we pretty much started a rookie corner every year for the last 3? Bennett, Molden and then Quin? And presumbably now whomever we draft?

 
Exactly. he has the physical tools and played well on special teams, but has missed way more games than he has suited up for.
with robinson's departure, who are the starting CB's? assuming everyone is healthy...
Quin and Reeves. McCain is the nickel, and then there's Bennett and Molden. It would be nice to see what Molden can do b/c he's pretty good on special teams but the guy is never healthy. I think it's safe to say we need a #1...
 
Highlights of Rick Smith's combine pressc onference via thetexans on twitter(will post the transcript when available)

http://twitter.com/thetexans

Smith: will meet with DeMeco Ryans' agent this weekend

32 minutes ago via web Smith: despite CBA uncertainty, approaching contracts as business as usual

33 minutes ago via web Smith: Pollard did heckuva job, I was proud of his impact, met with his agent last night, added a new dimension to defense,

34 minutes ago via web Smith: we didn't realize our goals of making playoffs, but we continued to improve

38 minutes ago via web Smith: K. Walter a big part of team, we would like to have him back, said that to his agent

40 minutes ago via web Smith: not depleted at CB, but still looking to add quality players

41 minutes ago via web Smith: important to get another CB now that Robinson is gone, but Texans have great CBs in Quin and McCain and Reeves

41 minutes ago via web Smith: RB is a position where you can get early production from younger players

42 minutes ago via web Smith: entertaining idea and thought process of adding Tomlinson

43 minutes ago via web Smith: we didn't blow the coin toss, the league had a coin with logos on both sides

 
The Texans made seven qualifying offers to players who will be restricted free agents on Thursday.

As expected, middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans and tight end Owen Daniels were tendered the maximum. That means if they receive qualifying offers and the Texans didn't match, they would get first- and third-round draft choices.

Strong safety Bernard Pollard was tendered at a first-round pick.

Offensive tackle Rashad Butler and running back Ryan Moats were tendered with a right of first refusal and their original draft pick. Butler (Carolina) and Moats (Philadelphia) were third-round picks.

The Texans have a right of first refusal on guard Chris White and defensive end Tim Bulman but will receive no compensation if they fail to match an offer the players receive.

Defensive tackle DelJuan Robinson signed a minimum tender Wednesday.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports...nt/6895788.html

 
Despite the presence of several NFL luminaries, Minnesota Vikings runner Chester Taylor is emerging as the prize of the free agent class.

AP

Chester Taylor is emerging as the most sought after free agent running back.

According to league sources, Taylor is going to be heavily pursued by the Detroit Lions and the Houston Texans, among several other interested franchises.

Taylor has ties to both cities, having grown up in Detroit and living in Houston during the offseason.

Who else is interested in Taylor?

National Football Post has learned that Taylor is also a target for the Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, New York Giants, Chicago Bears and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Vikings remain interested in re-signing Taylor with no deal imminent at this point as he's poised to hit the open market.

Although LaDainian Tomlinson, Brian Westbrook and Thomas Jones are all unrestricted free agents, Taylor's versatility and skills are attractive to several teams.

Plus, Taylor, 30, is well-preserved because he has operated as a backup for the majority of his career behind Jamal Lewis with the Baltimore Ravens and behind Adrian Peterson with the Vikings.

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Source...interested.html

 

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