HOUSTON (SportsRadio 610) -- Bill O’Brien is taking a larger role in the Texans’ offensive play-calling and game-planning this week, according to a report by Ian Rapoport at the NFL Network.
Offensive coordinator Tim Kelly will continue to relay calls to quarterback Deshaun Watson, but O’Brien will have a heavy hand in the decision.
Kelly is in his second season as the offensive coordinator, but O’Brien called plays last season.
The Texans want to focus on getting Watson into a rhythm by calling plays he likes, “while also moving him around a bit to find some success,” according to Rapoport.
The report said there could also be some scheme changes on the offensive line with fewer tight ends blocking edge rushers. The Texans have struggled to protect Watson, who's been sacked 13 times in three games this season.
Last month, just days before the Texans’ season opener in Kansas City, O’Brien was asked how different it would be for him not calling plays.
“I’ll be involved,” O’Brien said during a Sept. 7 media availability. “I understand the question and I think that that type of stuff, I don’t see that as that big of a deal. I’m still involved and I’m not going to sit there like a church mouse during the game. So, I’ll be involved in all three phases relative to what’s being called. I don’t really see that as a huge deal.”