Can DeAndre Hopkins replace Andre Johnson?
By Hayden Winks
Oct 9, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson (80) celebrates with wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) and wide receiver Keshawn Martin (82) after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
THE OFFSEASON
The biggest news of the free agency for the Texans was releasing Andre Johnson. He leaves behind a legacy in Houston and a sour taste in our mouths as he signed with the Indianapolis Colts. Since 2003, he has been the focal point of the passing attack and the face of the franchise.
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During his 12 year stint, he totaled 1,012 receptions, 13,597 yards, and 64 touchdowns. More importantly he stayed loyal to a team that only made the playoffs twice and was widely considered the worst team in the NFL. He battled some minor injuries and horrible quarterback performances but continued to compete throughout.
Replacing his presence in the locker room will certainly not be easy but finding a wide receiver is doable. The Texans added Cecil Shorts and veteran Nate Washington this offseason to add some much needed depth, but they do not remotely compare to Johnson.
This week, I ranked the possible wide receivers as the Texans could try to find a starter in the first few rounds of the draft. Without landing a big name free agent at receiver and without a commitment to drafting a receiver in the first round, all signs lead to DeAndre “Nuk” Hopkins being viewed by management as the new top dog.
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