The Houston Texans made the correct decision to release quarterback Ryan Mallett and sign T.J. Yates. Mallett's time with the Texans hasn't been smooth and the team finally reached its breaking point after Mallett missed the team flight to take on the Miami Dolphins. The move to cut Mallett is a clear indication that Brian Hoyer is the team's starting QB. Signing Yates was a smart choice, as the former Texan has knowledge of the offense. Yates might not have the physical tools that Mallett has, but he is a better fit for the Texans right now. Here are three reasons why Yates is an upgrade over Ryan Mallett.
3. Proven Success
Yates wasn't the reason the Texans made it to the playoffs in 2011, but he did help the team pick up a playoff win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Mallett hasn't produced the success Yates has. Mallett has won just two games as an NFL starter, against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Cleveland Browns. Yates might not have the raw talent of Mallett, but at least Yates has proven he can win at times.
2. Accuracy
Yates has completed 61 percent of his career passes, a decent number. However, it looks great compared to Mallett's 53 percent. Mallett has a stronger arm than Yates, but Yates is much more accurate with the ball. If something were to happen to Hoyer, Yates has the ability to step in and consistently find his targets. That's something Mallett struggled with.
1. More Reliable
Based solely on talent, Mallett is the better QB. However, Yates is much more reliable than Mallett. For starters, don't expect Yates to sleep through practices or miss planes like Mallett. Hoyer is clearly the starter for the Texans and the team needs a stabilizing and steady backup. That's what exactly Yates provides and it's the biggest reason he's an upgrade. Mallett had become a distraction and that's something Yates won't be.