The Texans used a fourth-round pick on Ervin in 2016 and are still waiting for return on that investment two years later. He was the primary return man on both punts and kicks during his rookie season, but exhibited ball-security problems. In 2017, he was poised to add third-down back to his special-teams role. He had 10 targets over the first two weeks before his season was cut short by a torn patellar tendon in Week 4. There's still a need for both roles entering 2018, so much depends on the health of his knee. In a passing-oriented offense with the dynamic Deshaun Watson, Ervin could emerge has a receiving threat, however, he'll be no better than third on backfield depth chart behind Lamar Miller and Alfred Blue to open the season. Ervin's roster spot could be in jeopardy by mid-season if D'Onta Forearm, who begins the campaign on the PUP list with an Achilles injury, is ultimately activated.