Houston, we have a new starting quarterback.
Coach David Culley confirmed Monday that veteran Tyrod Taylor would be the Week 1 starter against the Jaguars. The news was expected, as Deshaun Watson – their starter from 2017 to 2020 – faces 22 allegations of sexual assault and misconduct.
The 32-year-old Taylor signed a one-year deal with the Texans in March, and it was widely assumed he would be named the starter to begin the season with Watson embroiled in off-field issues. Taylor is on his fifth team since being drafted in the sixth round by the Ravens in 2011, having spent the last two seasons with the Chargers.
After leading the NFL in passing yards (4,823) last season, Watson remains on the Texans roster but is not expected to play in the season opener Sunday. In addition to facing civil lawsuits by 22 different women, who are massage therapists, and a possible suspension by the NFL, Watson requested a trade in January after four years in Houston.
Watson has denied all of the allegations, but it appears wildly unlikely he will suit up anytime soon. Monday’s news only furthered that belief.