Rookie C.J. Fiedorowicz
Rookie C.J. Fiedorowicz could get his first NFL start Sunday against Washington if starter Garrett Graham is ruled out with a back injury. Graham, dealing with a back issue, did not practice Friday and is listed as questionable.
Head coach Bill O'Brien has been impressed with the 6-5, 265-pound Iowa product throughout training camp and preseason.
"For a rookie tight end to come in here and pick up our system, he's done a really good job. He's become a better blocker. He's got a long way to go. He's only a rookie. But he's become a better blocker and I believe he's improved the in the passing game every week. He's an instinctive guy. He's a tough kid. He comes from a tough college football program at the University of Iowa. He was coach well by Kirk Ferentz and Brian Ferentz. He's got a good future and hopefully it starts on Sunday."
Fiedorowicz, who credits Ferentz for his work ethic and practice habits, If his number is called against Washington, Fiedorowicz is ready.
"You know, when I was drafted, they obviously expected something out of me," Fiedorowicz said Friday. "I came in here looking for the starting the job, whether I get it or not. Like I said, I've been working hard. If that time comes on Sunday, then it's my opportunity and I've got to run with it."
Rookie tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz could get his first NFL start Sunday against Washington if Garrett Graham is ruled out with a back injury.
Head coach Bill O'Brien has been impressed with the 6-5, 265-pound Iowa product throughout training camp and preseason.
"For a rookie tight end to come in here and pick up our system, he's done a really good job," O'Brien said Friday. "He's become a better blocker. He's got a long way to go. He's only a rookie. But he's become a better blocker and I believe he's improved the in the passing game every week. He's an instinctive guy. He's a tough kid. He comes from a tough college football program at the University of Iowa. He was coached well by Kirk Ferentz and Brian Ferentz. He's got a good future and hopefully it starts on Sunday."
Fiedorowicz, who credits the Hawkeyes head coach for his work ethic and practice habits, has put in extra time learning his blocking schemes and routes. If his number is called against Washington, Fiedorowicz is ready.
"You know, when I was drafted, they obviously expected something out of me," Fiedorowicz said Friday. "I came in here looking for the starting the job, whether I get it or not. Like I said, I've been working hard. If that time comes on Sunday, then it's my opportunity and I've got to run with it."
Graham, dealing with a back issue, did not practice Friday and is listed as questionable.
The Texans will host Washington in the 2014 season opener. Kickoff is scheduled for noon on KTRK ABC-13 and SportsRadio 610.
