The new Houston Texans passing duo of quarterback Deshaun Watson and receiver Brandin Cooks have been putting in time together in the offseason.
With the relaxing of guidelines amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Cooks has been able to meet with his new field general and work on their chemistry in the passing game.
According to John McClain of the Houston Chronicle, joining Watson and Cooks were receivers Randall Cobb, Keke Coutee, and tight end Kahale Warring.
Cooks told reporters on April 30 that part of the development of chemistry with a new quarterback is having the opportunity to play catch in the offseason.
“I think that’s coming with throwing, whenever that may be, whenever we can get together and throw, but not just that, from this time when we’re doing Zoom meetings, asking Deshaun what he’s looking for, what does he like to see from his receivers, what is he seeing in this defense and the way that he likes to throw things,” Cooks said. “We’ll still be able to do that from that aspect, and from the physical aspect there’s going to come a time and place, and I’m sure we’ll pick it up pretty fast.”
Watson and Cooks have found the time and the place, and so have their teammates. Having Watson work with Warring is significant to the former 2019 third-round pick’s development as he missed his rookie season due to being placed on injured reserve.
Cobb is expected to be the slot receiver in the Texans’ offense. However, Coutee is entering his third of four seasons with the club and could still have utility in the offense as a slot receiver. The Texans’ top four wideouts in Cobb, Cooks, Will Fuller, and Kenny Stills all missed time in 2019. If a similar situation arises, it could be a chance for Coutee to see more quality playing time.