Houston Texans: 2015 team awards

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Jan 3, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Brian Hoyer (7) throws the ball during the second quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Best Free Agent Acquisition, Brian Hoyer, Quarterback

Stats: 60.7 percent pass completions, 2,606 yards passing, 19 touchdowns, 7 interceptions

Sure, many were critical of the move when it happened, including the majority of the writer’s here on this site. But just like with Ryan Fitzpatrick before him, Brian Hoyer improved in every way possible under the tutelage of Bill O’Brien, AKA the quarterback whisperer.

Hoyer won the starting job in the preseason, only to lose it in Week 1. On a large stage, Thursdsay Night Football against the Indianapolis Colts, Hoyer got the job back despite a terrible mistake which cost Houston a comeback bid.

Still, despite his flaws early in the season, Hoyer wound up being a pretty good quarterback for the Texans as they found their way into the playoffs.

While his detractors could point to the team winning with T.J. Yates and Brandon Weeden under center, the fact is the offense didn’t look as unified without the veteran player under center. A smart quarterback who is humble and willing to learn, he was exactly what this offense needed, even if he does prove to simply be a stop-gap player.

Next: Wow Factor Player of the Year