Deshaun Watson has quarterbacks coach Carl Smith, coach Bill O’Brien and his assistant, T.J. Yates, among others, to help him develop when he’s practicing and watching the film with the Houston Texans.
His support staff of coaches doesn’t end with those employed by the Texans. Watson also has quarterback trainer Quincy Avery, who he considers to be much more than an extra football mind.
“He’s like a big brother. I don’t even call him coach, I just call him big bro. I’ve been working with him since high school, him and Jordan Palmer, who’s out in California,” Watson told reporters Wednesday. “Those two guys both have been there for me since day one.”
“They’ve both been trying to help me improve at my game every year at each and every level,” Watson continued, “and try keeping my mind fresh, keeping me focused on the main thing and keeping me going always back to the basics, not trying to go outside of what I’m good at, just always kind of sharpen what I need to, my weaknesses, and then always keep the strengths up as much as I can.”
Palmer is the younger brother of former No. 1 pick Carson Palmer. Jordan is in California, while Avery travels and spends his fair amount of time in Houston helping Watson grow. Avery is also family.
“He’s a guy that’s, from football to life experiences to business to family, just everything,” said Watson, “he’s like a big brother to me and I’m like a little brother to him. I’m an uncle to his daughter, so he’s family.”
“The family” is hoping to get better play from Watson, who completed 21-of-33 for 160 yards and took six sacks in the Week 4 loss to the Carolina Panthers. Watson, Avery, and the entire support staff are hoping the Pro Bowl field general can kick it into gear during the next three quarters of the season as the Texans seek to defend their AFC South crown.
