A quick observation of quarterback Ryan Mallett and how he played in the Houston Texans’ 22-13 loss in Week 12.

It seemed an odd departure and a stark contrast from his first start. In Week 11, Mallett had the 10th-best Total QBR for a quarterback making his first start since 2001. Then in Week 12, Mallett was suddenly sailing passes, missing his receivers and unable to do what he did the prior week.

It seemed an odd departure because it was: Mallett was playing with a torn right pectoral muscle. He'll have surgery and should miss the rest of the season, likely sending the Texans back to benched former starter Ryan Fitzpatrick for Sunday's game against the Titans. And while Mallett is in the final year of his contract, his future could still be with the Texans. NFL Network reported the Texans have told Mallett they want him back in 2015. ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported Mallett wants to be back and should be healthy by April.

The Texans would be wise to give Mallett more time. In his Week 11 win over the Cleveland Browns, he made smart decisions, got rid of the ball quickly and commanded the Texans' offense authoritatively. He showed enough promise to deserve more time.