9. Brian Hoyer, Houston Texans
Brian Hoyer led the Cleveland Browns to a 6-3 record to start out last season, and then the wheels completely fell off. The Browns not only missed the playoffs, but Hoyer was a large reason for that, as he finished the 2014 season with just 12 touchdowns in comparison to 13 interceptions.
The Browns let Hoyer walk this offseason, and he ended up signing with the Houston Texans. The former undrafted free agent is currently competing with Ryan Mallet for the starting position in Houston, but Hoyer looks to have the upper hand at the current moment.
Hoyer walks into a favorable situation because he’s playing with a solid team. Houston is just a couple years removed from being considered a Super Bowl contender, and went 8-8 in 2014 despite their issues at the quarterback position.
He also won’t have to constantly look over his shoulder as he did last season in Cleveland with first-round draft pick Johnny Manziel. The Michigan State product is ranked the 29th-best fantasy quarterback.
Considering his low-pressure environment and that he’ll be flanked by solid weapons in RB Arian Foster and WR DeAndre Hopkins, expect Hoyer to improve upon his disappointing end to the 2014 season.
Next: Marcus Mariota, Tennessee Titans