There’s big news on the ProCanes front following Week 8, and it comes as a bit of a surprise.

Andre Johnson

I may tear up a little bit writing this but...

Johnson officially wraps up a GREAT, HOF-worthy career in the league. I’m sure I’m not alone, but Johnson was one of my favorite NFL players ever. Although he was getting older and is a lot less flashy than other (most) receivers, he still produced, did what was asked of him, played hard, and did everything the RIGHT way. Johnson finishes the season with just nine receptions for 85 yards and two touchdowns. Although his 2016 numbers are pedestrian, his career statistics are ranked amongst the best to ever play the game. He retires with 1,062 receptions, 14,185 yards and 70 touchdowns. Absolutely incredible numbers...mind you, he put the majority of these numbers up on the expansion Texans. Congrats, Andre, on a spectacular career!

Oh...one more thing. I HAVE to add my favorite highlight:

Lamar Miller

In a game where his status was uncertain, Miller played through a shoulder injury and helped lead the Texans to a 20-13 win over the Lions (sorry Cam). Miller went for 56 yards on 17 carries, and also provided a score in the second quarter to put Houston up 14. “Miller Time” is quietly on his way to his second 1,000-yard season in his first season with the Texans.

Frank Gore

TIMELESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Gore found his way into the end zone AGAIN this past week with his third touchdown reception on the year, which ties a career high. What I love about Gore is his willingness to compete, play HIS game, and play his role as perfectly as he can.

To reiterate, those stats don’t pop, but Gore is simply a good football player and gives his all for the Colts week in and week out.

Allen Hurns

First, Hurns pays respect to a former Cane and NFL great. Salute.

Hurns scored the first ProCanes touchdown of the week, putting the streak at seven consecutive weeks. His QB, Blake Bortles, continues to be money and rack up the stats...in garbage time. Anyway, Hurns finished with seven catches for 98 yards, including this five-yard score.

Travis Benjamin

Have to save the best for last. Travis Benjamin only had three catches for 44 yards, but one of those receptions was this circus touchdown catch from Rivers to bring the Chargers within three.

Benjamin was always a good player with great speed, but it’s amazing what some of these ProCanes can do with other talent around them, most importantly, a QB. Now I just need Duke Johnson to get out of Cleveland!

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One more quick note, Jimmy Graham returned to New Orleans for the first time since being traded to the Seahawks. The trade was supposed to make Seattle’s offense more dynamic and game-breaking, but it isn’t quite working out that way so far. Graham is having a decent season with 30 catches for 442 yards, but only has one TD grab to show for it. After the loss to the Saints, Graham didn’t talk to the media, and is certainly missing Drew Brees and that offense.

That’s all for this week! See you guys after Week 9 and GO CANES!