Texans name Brian Hoyer starting quarterback

The Houston Texans named Brian Hoyer their starting quarterback Monday, confirming earlier reports that the veteran had edged out Ryan Mallett in the team's training camp competition.

"Brian knows that he has to go out and earn it every day," head coach Bill O'Brien told reporters. "This is a results-oriented business ... I believe in him. I believe in his ability to run our offense efficiently."

Hoyer joined the Texans as a free agent this past offseason after two years with the Cleveland Browns, immediately finding himself in another open competition for the lead job under center.

"I've been doubted my whole life and I think that drives me every day." Hoyer told reporters during a press conference on Monday. "To have that chip on my shoulder gives me even more motivation."

O'Brien had recently stated that the two signal-callers were still neck and neck a few weeks into camp, but Hoyer evidently separated himself from his younger counterpart following Houston's second preseason game.

Hoyer started 13 games for the Browns in 2014, throwing for 3,326 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions while leading the team to a 7-6 record over that span.

A relative lack of production toward the end of the season saw him lose his starting job, but the Texans will hope that an improved supporting cast and familiarity with O'Brien's offense will put Hoyer in a position to succeed.