Houston Texans

Hue Jackson has nothing but praise for Browns QB Brock Osweiler

Published Jun. 1, 2017 5:22 p.m. ET

Nunzio Ingrassia

When the Cleveland Browns pulled off their stunning trade for Brock Osweiler, many assumed the 26-year-old would be shipped out of Cleveland shortly thereafter. Even Browns executive vice president of football operations Sashi Brown was more enthusiastic about the second-round pick the Browns acquired in the deal with the Texans than Osweiler himself.

Fast-forward nearly three months, and not only is Osweiler still on the roster, but he apparently is making quite the impression. On Wednesday, Browns head coach Hue Jackson raved about the former second-round pick, who is owed $16 million this season.

“Since he’s been here he’s been outstanding,” Jackson told reporters. “I don’t judge people by what everybody else says, I judge them by what I see. ... The guy’s been outstanding in our building and that’s what’s most important.”

https://twitter.com/PatChiesa/status/869978365486354435

Osweiler struggled in his first season with the Texans, who signed him to a four-year, $72 million deal in 2016 despite having just seven starts under his belt in four years with the Broncos. He struggled badly last season, completing 59 percent of his attempts for 2,957 yards with 15 touchdowns and 16 interceptions.

Osweiler’s poor performance prompted the Texans to bench him late last season and trade him after just one year. But Osweiler’s new head coach has enjoyed what he’s seen so far.

“Brock’s been a pleasant surprise,” Jackson said. “He’s done a good job. He works hard at it every day. He’s into it. I think he really enjoys being here. I think he’s really meshed with the other quarterbacks. He has a good feel to him.”