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Running back David Johnson is playing for his fifth different offensive coordinator since entering the NFL as the Arizona Cardianls’ 2015 third-round pick.
Though Houston Texans offensive coordinator was given the play-calling duties at the NFL Scouting Combine per then-coach Bill O’Brien, the manifestation wasn’t entirely there. However, now that O’Brien has been fired and interim coach Romeo Crennel has taken over, Kelly has complete control of the offense.
Though schematically nothing has changed, according to Johnson, Kelly does collaborate more with players on game-planning.
“Tim’s really actually calling the plays, I think,” Johnson said. “He’s having the full job and I think he’s asking guys what they like. Overall, not really, but just to know that he’s calling it fully.”
Nothing too much has changed in Johnson’s production since Kelly took over completely on offense. In the 42-36 overtime loss at the Tennessee Titans, Johnson rushed 19 times for 57 yards and a touchdown. The former 2016 All-Pro still hasn’t carried over 20 times, nor has he rushed beyond the 100-yard mark.
If Johnson does a problem with his production or utilization in the offense, which doesn’t appear to be a problem at all, the 28-year-old knows he has a clear line of communication to express his thoughts.
“That’s what I like about this coaching staff,” Johnson said. “They’re up front by me to talk to them if there’s a concern. If they have concerns with me, we are very up front. They’ve never not done what I’ve asked. I’m always open to run or do whatever play to help out the offense. That’s what I like about this offensive staff.”
Johnson and the Texans will take on the Green Bay Packers in Week 7 Sunday at 12:00 p.m. CT.