NFL preseason 2015: Players with most to prove

Dec 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) reacts after an incomplete pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Jets 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 23, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Ryan Mallett (15) breaks away from Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Carlos Dunlap (96) at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

Houston Texans– Ryan Mallett

Why is he the pick?

Mallett is now in his second year with the Texans. Despite only appearing in seven games in his career, Mallett is 27 years old and faces a crossroads. Either he steps up and becomes a franchise quarterback for the next decade or so, or pretty much solidifies himself as a backup who can spot-start. Mallett was not able to beat out veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick last year, although that was expected.

This season, Mallett goes up against Brian Hoyer. Hoyer was coached by Bill O’Brien when he was with the New England Patriots as Tom Brady’s backup, so he understands the offense. However, Hoyer is clearly coming in to provide competition for a youngster who is 6-foot-6 and 245 pounds. If Mallett can show much of anything this preseason, he will win the job.

What is at stake?

Houston’s playoff chances. Look, the Texans went 9-7 last year, but they beat absolutely nobody with a pulse sans the Baltimore Ravens. If Houston wants to get to the postseason for the first time since the Gary Kubiak/Matt Schaub era, it needs Mallett to take the quantum leap. Mallett has some talent around him, although the receivers are pretty thin behind DeAndre Hopkins.

Next: Jacksonville Jaguars

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