Garrett Graham's new role as starter for the Texans is not an unfamiliar one to the fourth-year tight end. After all, he has started opposite Owen Daniels in three of five games in 2013. With Daniels on IR/Designated to Return with fractured fibula, Graham will be the starter for at least the next six weeks.
"Well, Garrett (Graham) obviously plays a lot for us anyway," head coach Gary Kubiak said. "He's like a starter and so he becomes our starter. Then, our young guy, will play a lot, (Ryan) Griffin will play a lot. And then we went and got (Jake) Byrne back on our roster. That's where we're at. Obviously, we'll miss OD (Owen Daniels). He's a big part of what we do offensively and we've had some challenges offensively."
With the Texans' preference towards two and three tight end sets, Graham has been involved heavily in the offense this season. Through five games, Graham tied his career season-high with three touchdowns. Rookie Ryan Griffin will step up into the number-two spot, while Graham anticipates more snaps as a starter.
"I would say probably 15 to 20 more plays, maybe," Graham said Friday. "We've obviously run a lot of two and three tight end sets, so I've been able to be in there a lot. But obviously, with Owen (Daniels) out, it's a shame, but I'll probably be in there another 20 plays or so."
