The Houston Texans surprised many with their first-round selection of offensive tackle Tytus Howard from Alabama State. While the general feeling was that the Texans would look for cover in this position early on, Howard was not a name frequently linked with the Lone Star State outfit.
However, the man himself seems far less surprised than most if his first conference call as a Texan is to be believed.
“It’s just an unbelievable feeling right now,” Howard said. “I’m just blessed to be a part of the Houston Texans. Great organization. I had a good feeling about the team when I went and did my visit and they decided to draft me. I promise you they didn’t make a mistake. I’m going to go out there and give them everything I have.”
A bold statement from the rookie who will have a big leap to make coming from a FCS background. Thankfully for Texans fans, Howard appears confident in his own abilities and in his understanding of how his new quarterback likes to play the game.
“I know Deshaun Watson is a very mobile quarterback,” said Howard. “He’s been one of the best quarterbacks. He still hasn’t been in the league that long. Me being a tackle, I feel like me and my athleticism, I’ll be able to protect him longer. He’s more mobile, so he moves around a lot more. I feel like me and him are going to build a great relationship while I’m there and help win some games for the Houston Texans.”
Howard also discussed how he believes his experience in the past as a quarterback will help him moving forward.
“I know how it feels to play quarterback, so I know how being sacked feels,” Howard said. “I try my best to not give up any sacks so I try to play as long as I can from keep the guy from hitting the quarterback.”
Fighting talk from the young man who will likely be starting come Week 1 given their poor offensive line situation. Expectations will, therefore, be high, and ultimately only time will tell whether or not the Texans may have found a long-term starter.
