Houston Texans 2014 Preview: Offense

Aug 23, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson (80) runs to his scrimmage line point in the first quarter of a preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Wide Receivers
For the Texans wide receivers, the leader is Andre Johnson, and after an offseason of uncertainly with Johnson and the Texans’ relationship, all seems to be back to normal (for the most part) with the two parties.

Having Johnson on the offense is a must for the Texans if they even want to think about having success in ’14.

In ’13, Johnson totaled 1,407 yards in what was his 11th NFL season, all with the Texans. He averaged 12.9 yards per reception with 109 catches last season to gain those numbers. Even with uncertainly at the QB position, Johnson showed just how valuable he was to the Texans as he was able to pull down five touchdown receptions.

It is simple … without Johnson on the field, the Texans will be unsuccessful.

The No. 2 wide receiver, playing opposite of Johnson, is second-year player DeAndre Hopkins. Though Hopkins started all 16 games in ’13, there is still room for improvement for this first-round selection whom the Texans are grooming to eventually take over the No. 1 role when Johnson steps down.

Hopkins has all the tools to become an elite receiver in the NFL, but even with the merry-go-round at QB in ’13, he was still able to garner 82 yards receiving on 52 receptions.

The No. 2 wide out on the Texans was able to average 15.4 ypc but had just two touchdowns. He averaged 50.1 yards per game receiving, with his longest reception being 66 yards.

Maybe having a new face at QB will help the progression of Hopkins, as this season I can see him having his first 1,000-plus yard receiving year.

Also on the receiver depth chart for the Texans are DeVier Posey, Damaris Johnson and Keshawn Martin.

One of those three receivers must step up and become the No. 3 receiver the Texans need to play the slot inside of Johnson and Hopkins. Posey has the best opportunity, as he is a talented player, but fending off injuries will be his No. 1 battle in ’14.