When the NFL schedule-makers presented their final product, the Texans had to be scratching their heads in disbelief. Who did they upset so much they were forced to open the year against the Ravens, Chiefs and Steelers, three of the toughest defenses in the league?
The Texans now sit at 0-3, and those fantasy football owners who invested in their players are banging their heads against a wall. But if you are one of the concussed, fear not, as it truly does get better.
Beginning in Week 4, the Texans go on an eight-week run that should have fantasy owners salivating at the potential points bonanza. They take on three of the softest defenses in the Vikings, Jaguars and Titans over the next three weeks, then prepare for a potential shootout against the Packers.
Following that stretch, it’s the Jaguars for a second time, the Browns, the Patriots and the Lions — a stretch of games like that should have you working the trade phones to acquire Texans if you don’t currently roster any.
Obviously, acquiring Deshaun Watson seems unlikely without having to trade a marquee player. But running back David Johnson, and receivers Will Fuller and Brandin Cooks should be available at a nice discount. Fantasy players continue to undervalue Johnson’s abilities, both as a runner and a pass-catcher, while the focus on Fuller and Cooks is their injury histories. Trade negotiations should be relatively smooth.
If the trade winds aren’t blowing in your direction, you can easily get a share of the Texans’ offense via waivers. Wide receiver Randall Cobb and tight end Jordan Akins are available in most 10- and 12-team leagues. Both players are expected to see ample targets in the passing attack and can be dangerous inside the red zone.
And don’t be alarmed at the potential trade cost when they light up Minnesota in Week 4. Most fantasy owners will think you’re chasing points. Let them. You know better.
Howard Bender is a senior writer at FantasyAlarm.com and the host of “Overtime” on SiriusXM Fantasy Sports Radio each Sunday from 11 p.m.-1 a.m. Follow him on Twitter @rotobuzzguy. For more from Fantasy Alarm, listen weekdays on SiriusXM from 4-6 p.m.
