Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson is dynamic as a thrower and gets more done with his arm than his legs. However, the two-time Pro Bowler is still a threat as a runner.
According to offensive coordinator Tim Kelly, who takes over play-calling for coach Bill O’Brien, the Texans intend to keep taking advantage of Watson’s skillset as a runner.
“With Deshaun, obviously his unique skillset, as a play caller and trying to figure out what plays to run, it kind of puts us in a great situation because he excels in so many areas,” Kelly said. “Not only is he a threat to throw the ball but he’s a threat with the ball in his hand. So, yeah, we’re going to continue to try to find different ways to put the defense in conflict and put him in a position to make plays.”
Watson conflicted opposing defenses to the tune of 82 carries for 413 yards and seven touchdowns. The yards were the third-most by a quarterback last year, and the touchdowns tied Lamar Jackson for the second-most in the NFL behind Josh Allen’s nine.
Unlike Madden, one cannot turn off injuries in reality football; there comes a risk every time Watson is made the focal point of the Texans’ rushing attack, and Kelly is aware of it.
“We want to make sure that comes first and foremost,” said Kelly. “We never want to put him in a position where he’s taking excessive shots. We’re always concerned about protecting him and making sure we keep him as clean as possible, even in situations where he may have the ball in his hand.”
The Texans’ offense may focus more on Watson the passer in 2020, but the brain trust is still cognizant of the fact their former 2017 first-round pick is quite the weapon on the ground.
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