So two of those three are Jaguars rookies. Probably more than coincidence. And assuming Bortles would be a failure with O'Brien (and the relatively better supporting cast the Texans seem to offer over the Jags) seems less of a given to me. Arguably of that draft class, Bortles was asked to do the most with the least, so the rookie season QBR means a little less to me.
Like him or not, Bortles was the first QB selected, and while not a guarantee of success, the first round of the NFL Draft is the best place for finding franchise QBs. Don't agree with me? Then tell me your plan for solving the QB position on the Texans in 2016 if it doesn't involve using a high pick. Because if the Texans refuse to ignore the position in the draft - again - then they'll be back in the market for retreads and backups ...and future 7-9 to 9-7 seasons (or worse).
Talk about 3-4 wasted seasons... and a search for a new coaching staff. Granted, McNair has been a very patient owner to date, but this plan you are surmising where O'Brien is willing to wait out 3+ years of .500 football for the perfect QB to fall into his lap just isn't a good plan. Can't play the "long con" in the NFL like the Astros appear poised to do in MLB. There is no farm system in the Not For Long, and playoff success without at least an above average QB is generally an anomaly. That's why I wonder if he regrets passing on Bortles (or fill-in-the-name QB from the last two drafts he passed on). The QB strategies of 2014 and 2015 are costing him wins, and I can't see that settling well for a head coach.
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