By GRAYSON SKWERES

Staff Writer

Ryan Mallett has been named the starting quarterback for the Texans, head coach Bill O’Brien announced today.

O’Brien backed up his decision to start the 6’6” gunslinger when he said, “He’s been in the system for four years. He’s made a lot of progress, and we’re going to give him his shot.”

Mallett was acquired in a trade during final cuts from the New England Patriots for a conditional 6th round pick. The acquisition of Mallett led to the eventual exit of hometown hero, Case Keenum.

The Texans have dropped four of their last five games, and currently sit with a 4-5 record at the bye week. O’Brien said that they would evaluate the entire team during the bye, including the quarterback position, which eventually led to this change.

Looking for a spark to the Texans struggling offense, O’Brien said: “I might be wrong, but this might be thing that helps our team.”

Texans fans won’t get to see their new field general this week as the Texans are off with a bye week. Mallett will get his first career start on Nov. 16 on the road against the Cleveland Browns.