The Texans’ kicking competition is over, as fifth-round pick Randy Bullock will be placed on injured reserve with a torn groin muscle.
That means journeyman Shayne Graham will win the job by default, although he had kicked well in the preseason.
Bullock injured the muscle earlier in camp, and missed some practice time. Texans coach Gary Kubiak said it was the reason he didn’t have the length on kickoffs they expected when they drafted Bullock out of Texas A&M.
“He came in today, and [the groin area] was black and blue,” Kubiak said, via John McClain of the Houston Chronicle. “He couldn’t even lift a leg. I’m really disappointed for the kid because he had kicked very well. But I’m also happy for Shayne because he’s done a great job.”
The 34-year-old Graham is in his 13th season. He made a Pro Bowl with the Bengals, and has also spent time with the Saints, Seahawks, Bills, Panthers, Ravens, Giants, Patriots, Redskins, Cowboys and Dolphins.
He was 5-of-5 on field goals, including from 48, 49 and 53, with good distance on kickoffs.
And judging by the sideburns in that picture, he’s gotten tired of being compared to Opie Taylor as he’s gotten older.