Houston Texans
Corey Davis isn’t the only AFC south receiver making waves in the first week of camp. Houston Texans slot receiver Keke Coutee has also been putting on a show. So far this week, he has been unguardable. Here’s an illustration:
Just not fair. Keke Coutee in the slot. #Texans pic.twitter.com/bJbRh9OjuM
— patrick (@PatDStat) July 25, 2019
Texans head coach Bill O’Brien was hesitant to draw comparisons with Wes Welker and Julian Edelman, star slot receivers he has coached in the past, but believes Coutee has a very bright future in the NFL:
“Each guy is a little bit different in their skill set, but those are obviously two great players that you mentioned that I’ve had the privilege of coaching,” O’Brien said. “Keke is an excellent young player. Had an awesome spring after coming off of a tough year dealing with some injuries and things, but really put the time in.
“He works hard; he’s a very dynamic player on the practice field, and the big thing for him will just be really staying healthy, being consistent and keep working the way he’s working. I think he’s got an excellent future in the league, no doubt about it.”
O’Brien also noted the steep learning curve associated with the position and how well the Texas Tech standout has handled it thus far in camp:
“I think that slot position is difficult. There’s a lot of traffic in there, a lot of different coverages, so it’s difficult. I think he’s doing a good job.”
Superstar Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is also excited by what Coutee (and Will Fuller) brings to the table:
“It’s special to have those guys out there,” admitted Hopkins. “They can help this team win games. What we did last year, what Will did last year before he got hurt, what Keke was doing, I love to watch those guys play. Sometimes I get caught just watching them do their thing. It’s a great feeling to see those two back out there with me.”
The buzz around Coutee is palpable a week into camp. The refrain is nearly unanimous: If he (and Will Fuller) can stay healthy, the defending AFC South champion Houston Texans will have one of the most dangerous offenses in the NFL.