Houston Texans: 10 wins – 7 losses, AFC South champions, 4th in AFC
Surprise team of the 2023 season, the Texans were expected in 2024 as a new stronghold in the AFC. If DeMeco Ryans' men won the division and are in the playoffs, the performance on the field did not meet expectations. Offensively, this team did not pass the expected milestone, like CJ Stroud.
How did they get there?
The Texans won 5 of the first 6 games, securing a cushion in the very useful division. The rest of the season was not at the same level of success, Houston letting slip affordable victories against the Jets or the Titans. Not strong enough to compete with the big teams, the Texans have, at a minimum, won enough games against weak teams to win a pitiful AFC South.
The key player: CJ Stroud (QB)
A true phenomenon as a rookie, player of the year and expected to be the standard-bearer of the new generation, CJ Stroud brutally smashed the second-year wall. Author of 19 touchdowns for 12 interceptions, he regressed in all areas of play. Not helped by his line, and by the injuries to the receivers, he no longer seems to know how to manipulate his pocket. We're going to need the CJ Stroud of 2023 to have any hope of the playoffs. And avoid interceptions.
Why are they going to go through with it?
Since his arrival as head coach of the Texans, DeMeco Ryans has transformed the destiny of this franchise. The group is the image of the player he was: serious, diligent, hardworking and combative. If the group is not yet top 10 on paper, each player contributes to creating a group capable of going to the playoffs every year.
The defense wins titles, which is a good thing the squad includes some very talented players. The pass rusher duo is obviously to be highlighted, with the young Will Anderson JR. and experienced man Danielle Hunter. Having two top players in such a crucial position is a strength. In addition to this duo, Derek Stingley has become a benchmark cornerback in the NFL. Another key position with an All Pro level player.
Why won't they go?
The Texans offense is a huge question mark. CJ Stroud is not up to par and the line is in free fall compared to last season. The receiving group is weakened by injuries and Joe Mixon cannot make a difference alone. The orchestra is no longer in harmony and the result is an immense cacophony.
If the Texans won a playoff game in 2024, they are not overflowing with experience. It's still a very young group that will have to learn quickly against the big names in the NFL.
Injured players
Few teams in the NFL have suffered as many injuries as the Texans. Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell, two of the top four offensive targets, are out for the season. Nico Collins has returned, but he is alone. The line also has problems, with Kenyon green just back and Juice Scruggs weakened. The last line of defense also lost Jalen Pitre and Jimmie Ward, and the rotation is limited. Injuries are a major problem for Houston.
Prognosis
The first game against the Chargers looks like a trap, against a team with confidence. Despite everything, this first match is winnable, and looks like a “50-50” confrontation.
But the rest risks looking like too high a step in the event of victory. Baltimore, Buffalo and even Kansas City are superior, and Super Bowl hopes will probably wait until 2026.
