With training camp getting started, as well as the 2017 season approaching, we will predict how the depth chart will look for each position. For this article, the focus will be on the Houston Texans cornerback position.
Houston Texans Cornerback Depth Chart Projections
1.) Johnathan Joseph
Johnathan Joseph has been, arguably, the best free agent addition in Texans history. He had the worst year of his career during his final season with the Bengals but he’s consistently been great in Houston. During his six years with the Texans, Joseph has racked up 326 tackles, 84 pass deflections, and 12 interceptions with two touchdowns.
The veteran corner missed a few late games with injury last season but managed to come back in the playoffs and record ten tackles against Oakland. Joseph may not be as fast as he once was, but he should still be able to handle man-to-man coverage. I expect to see him be more agressive at the line of scrimmage this season and utilize press coverage. With this being his final year under contract, it just feels like a make-or-break season.
2.) Kevin Johnson
Kevin Johnson looks like he’s going to be special. During his rookie season, Johnson showed promise racking up 54 tackles, nine pass deflections, and an interception. In 2016, Johnson earned a starting role. Before a foot injury ended his season early, Johnson had 25 tackles and three pass deflections.
Johnson will likely come into this season as the replacement for A.J. Bouye who is now with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He has big shoes to fill, indeed, but if he can pick back up where he left off, the sky is the limit.
3.) Kareem Jackson
Kareem Jackson has had a great career with the Texans thus far. During his seven years, he’s racked up 399 tackles, 60 pass deflections, and 13 interceptions with three touchdowns. For the last six years, it has been the Kareem Jackson and Johnathan Joseph show at cornerback. Jackson seems to have been struggling with the outside over the last few years, however, and could greatly benefit from moving to the nickel.
The former first round pick out of Alabama has a knack for zone coverage. Moving to the nickel should help the Texans maintain the middle of the field, as well as the seam routes. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Jackson blitz the quarterback either. With most of the Texans front seven are able to drop back into zone coverage, a corner blitz will create problems for any offense.
4.) Treston Decoud
Treston Decoud will more than likely spend the majority of his rookie season on special teams. The former Oregon State corner was unable to participate in most of the off-season workouts due to a dumb rule. Decoud will be able to participate in training camp but will have a lot of ground to make up.
Decoud’s size and physicality, and ability to wrap up the ball carrier, should make him a great addition to the special teams unit. Decoud should get a few snaps on the defense as well, likely in a nickel slot. His addition gives the Texans a boost in zone coverage as well as run support.
