The Texans received the AFC South final season and beat the Los Angeles Chargers within the opening spherical of the playoffs, however their passing offense took an enormous step again from the yr earlier than. That can doubtless want to vary to ensure that them to make a deeper run in 2025.
There are many questions surrounding Houston’s offense heading into C.J. Stroud’s third NFL season. Listed here are the most important:
Was it a sophomore stoop for Stroud?
Stroud appeared just like the steal of the NFL Draft in 2023 and ran away with the Offensive Rookie of the 12 months award, however he was not fairly as sharp final season. Houston’s passing offense took an enormous step again, although accidents to extensive receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell performed a job in that.
After throwing for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns and simply 5 interceptions as a rookie, Stroud struggled extra in his second season. He completed with 3,727 yards, 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 2024.
The Texans drafted a pair of extensive receivers inside the first three rounds and purchased Christian Kirk in a commerce, so they’re hoping their offense appears improved this season. That brings us to our subsequent query.
Who will step up because the No. 2 extensive receiver?
Nico Collins is likely one of the finest receivers in soccer, however the Texans desperately want a No. 2 possibility within the passing sport. Dell is anticipated to overlook all of 2025 due to a knee damage he suffered late final season. Diggs has departed in free company.
Houston acquired Kirk in a commerce with the Jacksonville Jaguars in March. It additionally drafted a pair of Iowa State extensive receivers in Jayden Higgins (No. 34 total) and Jaylin Noel (No. 79 total).
Incorporating rookie extensive receivers into an offense isn’t straightforward, however the Texans are hoping no less than one in every of their two former Cyclones turns into a day-one starter. If not, the depth chart will begin to look skinny in a rush.
Can the offensive line maintain up?
Stroud was sacked 52 occasions final season, which was the second-highest complete within the NFL behind solely Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams’ 68. Regardless of that, the Texans determined to commerce Professional Bowl left deal with Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders in March. In addition they parted methods with offensive linemen Shaq Mason and Kenyon Inexperienced, who frolicked as starters final season.
Houston addressed the O-line want by drafting deal with Aireontae Ersery within the second spherical. Veterans Cam Robinson and Trent Brown have additionally been added to the combo, however there are nonetheless extra questions than solutions alongside the offensive entrance.
Preserving Stroud upright can be a precedence for the Texans, and their revamped offensive line bears watching.
