Opponents have decided they’d rather not throw in the direction of Falcons cornerback Desmond Trufant.
Trufant has been targeted just seven times in coverage through three games, according to Pro Football Focus. The Eagles threw his way four times, the Giants didn’t try it at all and the Cowboys tested him three times.
Trufant has allowed just three catches for 60 yards. He chuckled when asked if he’s getting bored with so little action.
“You’ve got to stay ready,” he said. “They want to lull you to sleep and catch you not doing your technique and being lazy on a play, and that’s when you get hit.”
Houston Texans coach Bill O’Brien has some thoughts on the matter.
“It’s tough,” he said. “The reason why he’s not targeted is because he’s a really good player. He’s a guy who’s a smart player. He’s an interceptor. He can get his hands on the ball. He’s a physical player. He’s got really good instincts and transitional ability.”
Trufant, who tends to stay on the left side of the field, will have matches with Houston wide receivers DeAndre Hopkins, Nate Washington and Cecil Shorts.
“We have some good receivers. All three of our guys have had good years so far,” O’Brien said. “DeAndre, Cecil Shorts and Nate Washington have all been productive.”
Quarterback Ryan Mallett, who will be making his fifth NFL start, will likely stay away from Trufant, too. But that’s not guaranteed because O’Brien likes his receiving corps and believes they can help with Mallett’s development.
“It gives him confidence that when he throws the ball, it’s going to be caught, and the guys are going to be in the right spot,” O’Brien said. “I think having all of those guys have helped.”
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