Aaron Schobel to the Texans?

[dalemurphy]

http://www.texansbullblog.com

Rumors and reports are circulating that the Texans could sign Aaron Schobel this preseason if they want him. At this point, the Texans can not sign, contact, nor comment on Schobel because he is still officially a Buffalo Bill. John McClain has an informative article at http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/7135755.html that details the situation. Essentially, the Bills will be releasing Schobel and because of Schobel’s relationship with Bill Kollar (Texans DL coach), and his farm in Colombus, Texas… he would like to play in Houston.

Schoble is 32 years old and has been a highly successful DE pass rusher and playmaker in his career. He has suffered a number of injuries that past few years, limiting his practice time and gameday snaps, but he has remained a pass rushing force. He only played five games in 2008 due to injuries but rebounded last season with 10 sacks in 16 games, while still hampered with knee/leg ailments (http://www.pro-football-reference.co...S/SchoAa99.htm).

He is an undersized, high energy DE. He has less than elite speed and strength but has a great motor and understands the finer points of the game. Though he is unlikely to remain and every down player, I think he would be highly effective in a DE rotation. The Texans have three DEs that are assured of making the roster: Mario, A.Smith, and Barwin. However, only Barwin is strictly an edge rusher. So, Schobel could certainly fit into the rotation. As a matter of a fact, it is a wonderful thought to imagine a 3rd and long with Schobel and Barwin lined up at DE and Mario and A. Smith both pinched in at DT. There are many combinations that could be effective, and I think a deeper rotation of the DL is something that will help the pass rush significantly. I know that Kollar believes in heavy rotation and keeping guys fresh and their motors running high (strange that Okoye had so many snaps last year under Kollar). I’m sure there will be more on this potential development soon. Essentially, his presence would push out at least two of the following DEs from the roster: Bulman, Jamison, Nading.

here’s a fun highlight from last season: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7OAzUqlaHQ