It's not a big secret that the Texans were looking for a running back in the draft. They acquired West Virginia standout Steve Slaton in the third round as a change of pace back.
While discussing the NFL trend toward having at least one receiving-type playmaking RB, Texans offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan gave Reggie Bush a left handed compliment in the process (video above):
"I think Steve Slaton pretty much fits any offense to tell you the truth. The reason I think that is because he's a good runner, and a good enough runner can fit into any scheme. What we like most about Slaton, is I think he's got a chance to be a special-type player. You look at guys around the league like Kevin Faulk, a guy like Reggie Bush; guys who come in and fill a specific role on third downs.That's about as direct as the Texans have come to talking about why they didn't pick The! Best! Running Back! Evaaaar! that a lot of people thought was a no brainer pick in the 2006 draft.
...
I think when a guy is 197 pounds and if you look at the history throughout the NFL there are not too many guys that are first and second down player for long periods of time. When you look at a guy that people are projecting as a third down type guy or a change of pace guy I believe a lot of teams have more important needs that go early in the draft. One exception is Reggie Bush; he is the highest guy that I've seen go that is a third down type player. The third round is when these guys start popping out."
When asked about Shanahan's Reggie Bush-Kevin Faulk comparison, Slaton was having none of that. He is good with being his own fine self.
If you want to see the obligatory music filled, running back highlight YouTube of Slaton, check this one out:
If that doesn't make you want the season to start immediately, I don't know what will.
Previously at FanHouse:
Everything Steve Slaton
Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Reggie Bust isn't really even a running back. He's more of a utility player and/or decoy. Now that teams have figured out he's afraid to run between the tackles he's not even a good decoy.
I don't think I've been more excited to see a collegiate player suit up for the Texans. If Green's healthy and that's a BIG if, I'm salivating at the possibility of a Slaton/Green backfield.
Boy, that highlight reel reminded me of all of the Reggie Bush highlights from his college days at USC. Very impressive speedy runs through gaping holes. Let's hope that Slaton turns out to be more elusive than Bush in the NFL.
Enjoyed your blog.
Steve Slaton kicks ass!
The Texans were right in not drafting Reggie Bush and letting Hollywood Reggie Bush do his Rocky Balboa knockoff commercials. He is a special player for the Saints but not a Superman performance with the Saints.