Projecting the Texans’ MVP and other awards! Submit your vote too!
By Hayden Winks
Oct 18, 2014; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jaelen Strong (21) on the sidelines prior to the game against the Stanford Cardinal at Sun Devil Stadium. The Sun Devils defeated the Cardinal 26-10. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Offensive Rookie of the Year – Jaelen Strong
To be clear, I do not expect a lot from Jaelen Strong this year but there is not too many other options here once again. Only Kenny Hilliard and Keith Mumphrey were offensive players drafted by the Texans in 2015. Neither will have any role as rookies and both are likely to end up on the practice squad.
If everything goes right, Strong will be mixing in with Cecil Shorts as his backup in two-wideout sets and be the third wide receiver in three-wide sets. Nate Washington, his main competition for snaps, is out of his prime and the coaches easily can move forward with the prospect they just spent a third round draft pick on. In that role he could approach 40-50 receptions and maybe get 600 yards and a couple touchdowns.
However, I would bet against that happening. He needs a good training camp to gain the trust of Bill O’Brien just to get onto the field. Jaelen Strong has reportedly shown up to camp out of shape and has been bothered by a hamstring problem. This is very early into the season but not a good sign for his year one impact. I think it is more realistic that he is eased into snaps throughout the season as he works with veterans Cecil Shorts and Nate Washington. Hopefully Jaelen Strong can get healthy and produce in the second half of the year and into the playoffs.
Next: Most Valuable Player