Randy Bullock Released by Texans: Latest Details, Comments and Reaction

The Houston Texans have made a change at kicker as of Tuesday after cutting ties with Randy Bullock in favor of Nick Novak.

John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reported the news of Bullock's release and the team's plans to sign Novak. Bullock did convert five of six field-goal attempts through three games but missed two of five extra-point opportunities, which is what presumably sealed his fate.

ESPN's Adam Schefter highlighted how extra points have changed since the NFL decided to move them back to the 15-yard line:   

It's better for the Texans to be as comfortable as possible with their kicker considering the struggles their offense has endured through three contests. Ryan Mallett and Brian Hoyer have combined for a 70.3 passer rating, so Houston will need to capitalize on any chance to get points it can.

Reliable kickers are hard to come by. Given Bullock's experience and stellar 2014 campaign, when he hit 30 of 35 field goals, he figures to have at least a chance on the open market.

Novak kicked for the San Diego Chargers last year and hit 22 of 26 attempts after converting on better than 90 percent of his field-goal tries over the prior two seasons. It will be interesting to see how Novak handles the extended extra-point try and how patient Houston will be with him.

The good news is the AFC South is wide-open, and the Texans figure to have star running back Arian Foster returning soon. If Foster can ignite the offense and the QB play is passable, Houston ought to be in most games, meaning Novak must come through in the clutch.