Apparently, Andre Johnson never made it out to that island over the Houston Texans bye week.
The disconsolate star wide receiver, whom Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cary Williams said was a shell of his former self with his two-reception effort in the Texans' 31-21 loss to the Eagles, was just as somber in his response to the quarterback change that Houston coach Bill O'Brien announced Tuesday.
O'Brien said Ryan Mallett will start in the Texans' next game Nov. 16 against the Cleveland Browns, replacing Ryan Fitzpatrick. Johnson, who has 48 receptions for 563 yards and one touchdown with Fitzpatrick as the starter through the first nine games, didn't exactly give a ringing endorsement for Mallett, either.
Perhaps, Johnson was being sensitive to Fitzpatrick, or he doesn't believe the Texans situation will improve significantly with Mallett.
"I think the guy can throw the ball," Johnson told the Houston Chronicle but quickly added, "I think both of them can. I think the world of both of them. I support both of them. Both of them are my teammates. Whoever's out there, Mallett or Fitz, I'll give it my best to get open. I feel comfortable with both guys."
Reporters likely were looking for more of a response from Johnson after netting just 12 receiving yards against the Eagles, his lowest single-game total since 2006.
But all Johnson could offer was, "Coach made a decision," Johnson said. "It is what it is."
He then was asked whether Mallett's presence could provide a spark to the team, which has lost four of its last five games, but Johnson refused to take the bait.
According to the Chronicle, Johnson shrugged his shoulders and said, "We'll see what happens."
Which could mean another muted performance from Johnson against the Browns, and more of a melancholy attitude.
Do you think Andre Johnson can return to Pro Bowl form with Ryan Mallett under center? Comment below or tell us @SportsWN.
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