Rookie Marlin Klein silenced draft-day critics with an explosive 31-yard grab, showcasing the rare athleticism that could transform Houston’s offense and solidify a struggling depth chart.
The Houston Texans had a rough first showing in their preseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Texans fell to the Chargers, 27-7.
Admittedly, that performance did not alleviate the fear we all had about what happens if a top starter gets injured. The depth, if the Texans do have it, did not show up well enough in the game.
That said, it's important to note it's only a preseason game, and backups may play much better when surrounded by other Texans starters. One player gave reason for optimism that a good supporting cast could bring the best out of his ability.
Jared Koch of Houston Texans on SI discussed surprise performer Marlin Klein's breakout showing at wide receiver in the preseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers. Here's some of what Koch had to say about Klein's respectable performance.
"When the Texans first drafted Marlin Klein this offseason, they were faced with some initial questions as to why they decided to take a day-three projected tight end with a top-60 pick.
But with continued big plays in training camp, and this time, in a preseason outing, it's beginning to become clear why Houston wanted to get their hands on him.
Klein only had one catch during his performance against Los Angeles, but it was the biggest play any player on the Texans' offense made, worth 31 yards thanks to a catch over the middle from Davis Mills.
Klein has a unique combination of size and athleticism that's largely been unproven throughout his time in college. But at the NFL level, with a little more time and additional reps, he could make him a dangerous threat as a receiver and as a blocker in Houston's tight end group. Plays like this certify that."
Not everyone loved the decision to draft Klein as early as the Texans did, but perhaps they were onto something when they made the pick. For a team that needs help so badly at receiver, Klein's emergence at least gives Texans fans something to be excited about in the future if not in the present.
There's still more for Klein to prove. In the NFL, you have to perform week in and week out to make a real impact in the league. Still, Klein's initial performance made a strong statement about what he may end up doing in the league.
The Texans will look to sharpen their play as the regular season nears.
