The Cleveland Browns have moved on from Brian Hoyer, but the quarterback might not be homeless for long.
NFL Media's Jeff Darlington reported Saturday that the Houston Texans are zeroing in on the veteran signal-caller as a top quarterback target, per a source with knowledge of the team's plans.
Based on what he was told, Darlington expects either Hoyer or fellow free agent Ryan Mallett to open the season as Houston's starter.
Coach Bill O'Brien showered Mallett with praise at last month's NFL Scouting Combine, calling the passer a "starter in this league" and telling reporters: "I'd like to have him back."
O'Brien knows both passers from their time together with the New England Patriots, where Mallett succeeded Hoyer as Tom Brady's backup. Houston swung a trade in August for Mallet, who has expressed interest in returning to the Texans in 2015.
Hoyer played well out of the gate for the Browns last season before melting down over his final five starts in Cleveland. He's been open about his desire to sign with a squad that will give him a chance to start. Houston is one of the few landing spots that offer that potential opportunity.
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