Houston Texans: Ranking each of Bill O’Brien’s trades as general manager

1. Martinas Rankin to the Chiefs for Carlos Hyde

Finally, the last trade on the list is one that only provided a year of production but still seems like Bill O’Brien’s best move to date. After already making a move for Duke Johnson last offseason, the backup job was completely up in the air. Players like Karan Higdon Jr. and Buddy Howell were in contention for major playing time, so it seemed like another player could be added.

On the day that each 53-man roster was announced, Bill O’Brien made numerous trades in one day and was able to find a gem in running back Carlos Hyde. After previously playing very well for the San Francisco 49ers years prior, Hyde had found himself struggling to cement himself on the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars.

Hyde was signed by the Chiefs but was quickly traded to the Texans for offensive tackle Martinas Rankin, who had struggled mightily after missing a lot of time with injuries.

Right out of the gate, Hyde had a hot start to the season and ultimately finished with 1,070 yards, six touchdowns, and a 4.4 yards per rush average. Though he wasn’t a prevalent pass catcher, he added 42 receiving yards and two more scores through the air.

Hyde played the whole season with the Houston Texans, but remains a free agent. Hyde proved that he was a worthy pickup in 2019, but of all of the wild trades made by Bill O’Brien, this seems like the logical choice for the top spot.