Houston Texans coach Bill O'Brien: Quarterback competition is 'wide open'

Texans coach Bill O'Brien raised his profile as New England's quarterbacks coach for three years before he headed to the college ranks. (Bob Levey/Getty Images)

The Houston Texans decided to pass on a quarterback with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft when they opted for help on defense in selecting South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney.

It wasn't until the fourth round of the draft, when the team picked Pittsburgh's Tom Savage, that the Texans addressed their need under center, and many believed waiting that long could indicate the team is confident with a signal-caller already on the roster.

According to Brian T. Smith of The Houston Chronicle, however, Texans head coach Bill O'Brien says that the quarterback competition is "wide open."

MORE COVERAGE: Offseason Report Cards | NFL Power Rankings | 2015 NFL Mock Draft 

That would mean that veteran free-agent acquisition Ryan Fitzpatrick will be competing with a trio of youngsters in Savage, Case Keenum and T.J. Yates.

Fitzpatrick would appear to be the favorite to win the competition because of his experience, but there is no guarantee he will be able to beat out the younger options throughout OTAs and training camp.

 Chronicle