Subscribe
Follow Us
The Houston Texans are moving on to the AFC Divisional Round thanks to the efforts of cornerback Gareon Conley.
The Texans opted to make a move for Conley at the trade deadline by giving up a third-round pick to the Oakland Raiders. Although it was seen as a risk at the time, it is safe to say that he has done a stellar job of justifying the decision.
The former first-round pick has etched out a prominent role for himself as a starter in Houston's defense. It seems the change of scenery was just what he needed in order to get his career back on track. According to ESPN's Jayson Braddock, he even had more pass deflections than any other cornerback since his arrival in Week 8:
Gareon Conley (14) has more PDs since joining the Texans (week 8) than any other player has for the entire year (J-Joe 13).
More importantly, Conley proved that he was more than ready for the big stage. He was finally able to show off his promise after playing a vital role in the 22-19 win over the Buffalo Bills. Conley registered seven tackles and three pass defenses in his first career postseason game.
Gareon Conley Has Won Over The Coaching Staff
Conley's resurgence has helped vindicate the trade. He has also made quite the impression on head coach Bill O'Brien.
Article Continues Below
Via Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle:
“I think anytime you make a trade always some risk involved. We felt like Gareon was at stage of his career where it was worth the risk. He's helped us win some games”
Conley has earned the confidence of his coaching staff. The onus will fall on him to continue providing stout defense against a high-powered Kansas City Chiefs offense. This group has no shortage of weapons on the outside. Conley will likely be tasked with assisting the Texans' efforts to contain wide receiver Tyreek Hill.
Even if he is not lined upon across from Hill, Conley will still have to be on his toes. He'll likely be tasked with wide receivers such as Sammy Watkins and Mecole Hardman in the mix. It appears the investment that Houston made with their secondary is coming in handy now more than ever.
Another stellar outing from Conley against any of these wide-outs will pay huge dividends for the Texans as they look to keep their championship hopes alive by upsetting the Chiefs on the road.
