NFL power rankings: Which AFC quarterback is best?

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 19: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs reacts after a fourth quarter touchdown pass against the Tennessee Titans in the AFC Championship Game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 19, 2020 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

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Deshaun Watson, Houston Texans. (Photo by Peter G. Aiken/Getty Images) /

2. Deshaun Watson, Houston Texans

Watson is one of the most talented passers in all of football.

The Texans’ star not only has terrific arm strength & accuracy, but also has superstar ability with his feet and rarely makes the wrong decision with the ball. The biggest hiccup to Watson’s growth as a quarterback is head coach and general manager Bill O’Brien.

This offseason, O’Brien traded All-Pro receiver De’Andre Hopkins for a second-round pick. He was replaced by the oft-injured Brandin Cooks, who comes over in a trade from the Los Angeles Rams.

In 2019, Watson led the Texans to the Divisional Round of the AFC playoffs and an AFC South title. With 3,852 passing yards and 26 touchdowns, he was named to his second consecutive Pro Bowl.

Now three years in, with 37 starts under his belt, the former Clemson Tiger has over 9,700 passing yards and 71 touchdowns against 29 interceptions.

By far the biggest question mark entering the season is if the offensive line can protect him. In two and a half seasons as a full-time starter, Watson has been sacked 125 times. Not great.

If the Texans’ star is going to reach his full potential – protection has got to be the top objective.

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