Houston Texans are entering the 2020 NFL season with a revamped receiving core and fairly open depth chart on the position. This is where Texans’ third-year WR Keke Coutee sees an opportunity to carve a bigger role on the team this season.
The team traded away All-Pro wideout DeAndre Hopkins in the offseason while bringing in new faces in Brandin Cooks and Randall Cobb. Besides the duo, Texans will also have on their roster rookie Isaiah Coulter and veterans Will Fuller and Kenny Stills, creating a competitive surrounding for snaps.
But, despite the strong competition, Coutee believes he can earn head coach Bill O’Brien’s trust.
“Very hungry, very hungry,” Coutee told Houston Chronicle’s Aaron Wilson when asked about his mindset for this season. “Not a lot of talking, just ready to work. Results speak for themselves in 2020. I’m just trying to get back to the basics, getting back to what I’m good at and fix the things I need to work on and, most importantly, be ready for the season.”
Texans drafted Coutee with high hopes in 2018’s, but the former Texas Tech product had a slow start of his pro career, struggling with injuries in the past two seasons. He dealt with a chronic hamstring injury and ankle sprain, being limited to only 15 appearances.
Now Coutee, who’s career stats include 50 receptions for 541 yards and a touchdown, hopes he can stay on the field long enough to showcase his talent.
“Just to be healthy and be the best teammate I can be this year and just producing where I can,” he added. “Just being able to make plays when I’m called upon when the ball is coming my way, that’s the best thing I can do to make plays.”
