News Texans Team Notes

[Houston Texans]

New Houston Texans wideout Christian Kirk looking from the outside in

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

And what do you think he sees?

When you face the Houston Texans twice a year, you get a certain perspective on the team. When you bail on the Jacksonville Jaguars to join the Texans, that perspective evolves. If ya can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, right?

Newly minted Texans slot receiver, Christian Kirk recently stepped to the podium after OTAs and answered all sorts of questions for the local and national media.

Christian Kirk (via Sports Radio 610)

The transition has been nothing short of amazing. Everybody in the organization has been welcoming from day one.. Having played at Texas A&M, it’s good to be back. It’s been a long time since I’ve been back in the state of Texas-& now down the street from A&M so definitely looking forward to getting back over there.. It’s been great. We’re laying the foundation. Just been really happy since day one.

The former Arizona Cardinal and Glitter Kitty has amassed 404 catches, 5,176 yards and 29 touchdowns in his 7 NFL seasons.

For comparisons sake, the Texans best pass catcher, Nico Collins, has 218 catches for 3,230 yards and 18 touchdowns in 4 seasons.

Collins is averaging 73 catches for 1077 yards and 6 scores per season.

Kirk is averaging 74 catches for 946 yards and 5 scores per season.

Christian Kirk on Nico Collins:

“It makes sense why he’s been a top 5 WR the past couple years. He kind reminds me of a former teammate I played with: AJ Green” pic.twitter.com/qOXxB89iW2

— Houston Stressans (@TexansCommenter) June 3, 2025​

What seemed to get Kirk’s passion flaring was the overall culture of the Texans.

New #Texans WR Christian Kirk on how the Texans culture compares to others:

“It will be the reason why we have success late in the season” pic.twitter.com/WnJFue9RJc

— Nick Schwager (@NickSchwagerNFL) June 3, 2025​

Texans WR Christian Kirk was also asked for his general thoughts on the Texans organization as a whole so far during his time in Houston-

"Just being in the building these past couple of months, it makes sense why they won the Division these past two years.. Just with what [Head… pic.twitter.com/OIS3bj0FSG

— Tyler Milner (@tmilrealdeal) June 4, 2025​

Said it before and will say it again: Demeco Ryans as Head Coach is the best thing that ever happened to this franchise. And, to a “close second” extent, Nick Caserio. Ryans culture and Caserio’s roster building is what brought this wide receiver duo together.

If Collins & Kirk stay healthy, and someone - anyone - on the remaining WR depth chart can step up and play opposite Collins, this passing attack is going to be legendary.

Week 1 can’t get here soon enough!

Nico Collins says Christian Kirk is the "one guy" Texans needed on offense: "Slot magic man, he is in the slot going crazy"https://t.co/QXMOvDuoUT pic.twitter.com/LaJO1phZhA

— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) May 29, 2025​

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...ut-christian-kirk-looking-from-the-outside-in

 

[Houston Texans]

Houston Texans News: Newly acquired free agent CB announces retirement

Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Your one-stop shop for Houston Texans, local sports, and news from around the league for Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

Houston Texans News

Texans newest star blindsides team, says goodbye before playing a down in Houston (Sporting News)

Houston Texans Still Have One NFL Draft Pick Without Contract (Sports Illustrated)

Texans’ Calen Bullock, Kamari Lassiter on rookie snubs, All-Pro goals and more (Houston Chronicle)

OTAs Key Storylines | 1-Minute Recap (HoustonTexans.com)

NFL News

Sources: Steelers unlikely to trade for TE Smith (ESPN.com)

Deion rips ‘foolish’ reports on Shedeur draft prep (ESPN.com)

Lions’ Pro Bowl center Ragnow says he’s retiring (ESPN.com)

Diggs at Pats OTA after absence, viral boat video (ESPN.com)

Pats’ Andrews on retiring: ‘Wanted to finish it here’ (ESPN.com)

Falcons say Pitts dealing with undisclosed injury (ESPN.com)

49ers trade for Huff, reunite DE with DC Saleh (ESPN.com)

Houston & Collegiate Sports

Police: Threats to Astros’ McCullers came from intoxicated bettor (Reuters)

Brown, Peña and Hader exemplify early All-Star push in shutout victory (MLB.com)

Houston Astros GM Dana Brown says team could have shut Yordan Alvarez down earlier with hand injury (MSN.com)

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/battl...y-acquired-free-agent-cb-announces-retirement

 

[Houston Texans]

What will a Will Anderson contract look like?

Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images

Is the young defensive end ready to cash in?

The short answer to the subheading is yes. Will Anderson is ready to cash in. Ironically, while quarterbacks get the most headlines and the most money, there is more intrigue at the edge rusher position in terms of free agent dollars. The quarterback market is pretty tight and pretty well defined. The edge rusher market not so much.

Like with did with Stroud last week, we will do with Anderson this week. We will start by looking at the top 12 edge rushers according to AAV. In order to do this, we are playing a little guessing game. Trey Hendrickson and Micah Parsons will almost certainly have new deals from someone before the season starts. That will play into Anderson’s market, so we have to include them. At this point, we are just getting on a price, so their financials will be in italics.

From there, we can look at the collective performance of these 12 players over their last two seasons. With both the financials and the performance data we will gather a median and a mean. The final step will be to get a per 15 game estimate of those numbers to see where Anderson needs to be to comfortably be within the group.

Hendrickson and Parsons represent a guess. If we take them out then the numbers get much more stark. Everyone except for Garrett fits into a range between 22 and 35 million. Obviously, when you sign the contract makes a bit difference. This is why we use medians in the first place. Garrett’s contract skews the mean because it is so far beyond what anyone else is making.

It is also the folly of the Bengals and Cowboys in this instance. All it takes is one idiot to set the market and the Browns were that Huckleberry. Parsons can make the Cowboys life miserable simply by demanding Garrett money. is he as good as Garrett? We will see when we look at the numbers, but this day and age that really doesn’t matter all that much.

The Bengals just paid both of their wide receivers, so they may not have the appetite to go 30+ million for Hendrickson. Someone will though. Then, you have the looming contract for Aidan Hutchinson. While Stroud will make more than Anderson, there is more of a state of flux for Anderson based not only on his performance, but the fact that a few prominent edge rushers have yet to be paid.

These run the gamat as well. Like we did with Stroud, it is important to pay attention to the mean and median for these numbers. Is this the neighborhood that Anderson lives in? If not, then what does he need to do to get to that neighborhood? Obviously, we need to look at his numbers.

Anderson: 27 games, 82 tackles, 26 TFL, 18.0 sacks, 41 QB hits

At first glance, it would appear he is far short. However, the category he is most short in is games played. If we prorate those numbers over the course of 32 games then we will see that he actually is not that far off from the median and mean. So, let’s take a look at that below.

Anderson: 32 games, 97 tackles, 31 TFL, 21.3 sacks, 48.5 QB Hits

I’d say that puts him in the neighborhood and that doesn’t even consider any kind of improvement he might have between year two and year three. Supposedly, he has already added a pass rush move or two, so it is reasonable to expect him to outproduce these numbers some. The whole key will be staying on the field.

Speaking of staying on the field, one of the things I like to do is project out numbers on a per 15 game basis. The idea is to give an approximation of what a normal season might look like. Expecting players to play in all 17 games seems unrealistic given the physical rigors of the NFL. So, let’s take a look at the positional mean and median on a per 15 game basis.

At first glance, this seems pretty straight forward and reasonable. However, we have to consider one monkey in the wrench. Danielle Hunter will steal some of these numbers for himself and he is one of the 12 people above. Moreover, as the Texans defense continues to improve, the raw numbers might begin to look different. It is possible to have a dramatic impact without actually putting up numbers.

That being said, the bar seems easy enough to clear if he can remain on the field. This is a huge year for him similarly to Derek Stingley last season. If he can stay healthy and productive he will cash in. It seems like 30 million per season is the floor and the most likely result is somewhere between 35 and 40 million per season. 2026 is going to be an expensive year for Cal and Hannah McNair.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/6/2/24441031/what-will-a-will-anderson-contract-look-like

 

[Houston Texans]

Texans sign former Browns RB Nick Chubb to one-year deal, pending physical

Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images

So, who’s the odd man out in the RB corps?

You know, we as Texans fans owe a lot to the Cleveland Browns over the last few years. They helped the Texans get out from under the disastrous Brock Osweiler contract (not that he ever played for us; that’s just a filthy, spurious lie), they let the Texans trade up in the draft to select noted pariah and former savior of the team Deshaun Watson, they later would trade three first rounders (among other picks) to the Texans, allowing them to draft:

G Kenyon Green
WR John Metchie III
LB Christian Harris
DL Thomas Booker
RB Dameon Pierce
EDGE Will Anderson Jr.
DB Calen Bullock
WR Tank Dell
DB Kamari Lassiter
LB Jamal Hill
TE Cade Stover

...and in free agency, they traded one of those picks to Buffalo for a few games’ worth of Stefon Diggs.

And now with the Browns releasing Nick Chubb, they’ve given the Texans one, last parting gift. Because as of this morning, Nick Chubb is officially a Houston Texan.

Per Ian Rapoport from NFL Network:

The full story on #Browns free agent RB Nick Chubb agreeing to terms with the #Texans on a 1-year deal, pending physical: https://t.co/lTc37RjtPDhttps://t.co/lTc37RjtPD

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 9, 2025

A one-year deal is a win-win for the Texans as there’s no telling how much Chubb has left in the tank, given his injury history. If he’s truly washed, then it’s a minimal investment with minimal loss, but if he’s still got something left, pairing him with starting RB Joe Mixon would make the Texans’ RBs one of the most feared batteries in the league.

That said, it will also likely spell the end of either Pierce’s or Ogunbowale’s tenure in Houston, as Marks would likely be the future for the Texans at RB.

What do y’all think of the Chubb signing? You in favor of it? Hate it? Who do you think gets cut from the RB corps to make room for him? Let us know in the comments below!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...-nick-chubb-to-one-year-deal-pending-physical

 

[Houston Texans]

Texans Reacts Survey: The Offseason So Far...

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

We ask, you answer. It’s a whole thing.

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Houston Texans fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/6/11/24446893/texans-reacts-survey-the-offseason-so-far

 

[Houston Texans]

Value of Things: Anatomy of a top rushing attack

Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

What could Nick Chubb do the for the offense?

Much is made of high powered offenses in the NFL. Usually, the focus for the Texans going from a mediocre offense to a good offense is focused on improvement in pass protection and the performance of the passing game. Those things can certainly be helpful and they will lead to a jump in performance, but few people in the mainstream media focus on the development of the running game.

The Texans had a better season on the ground by most numbers between 2023 and 2024. Joe Mixon became the team’s first 1000 yard rusher since the last time they went to the playoffs in the Bill O’Brien era. Considering he lost a few games to injury, he might have had the best season for a Texans running back since Arian Foster. So, obviously it is not an outhouse to penthouse situation.

Outside of Mixon, the results were not nearly as good. Yes, the Texans can get to where they want to go if Stroud performs more like a top five quarterback. Yet, they might also get there if the Texans can become a top five running attack. Is it possible? Let’s start by looking at the overall Texans numbers.

2024: 434 carries, 1909 yards, 15 TD, 4.4 YPA
Per Game: 25.5 carries, 112.3 yards, 0.88 TD

These numbers are quite important when we compare them with the top five rushing offenses in the league from last season. What is most stark is that the difference doesn’t look to be that much when we start looking at it from a per game perspective. We will look at both.

Ravens Season: 554 attempts, 3189 yards, 21 TD, 5.8 YPA
Ravens per game: 32.6 attempts, 187.6 yards, 1.24 TD

Eagles Season: 621 attempts, 3048 yards, 29 TD, 4.9 YPA
Eagles per game: 36.5 attempts, 179.3 yards, 1.71 TD

Commanders season: 526 attempts, 2619 yards, 25 TD, 5.0 YPA
Commanders per game: 30.9 attempts, 154.1 yards, 1.47 TD

Bucs season: 483 attempts, 2536 yards, 16 TD, 5.3 YPA
Bucs per game: 28.4 attempts, 149.2 yards, 0.94 TD

Packers season: 526 attempts, 2496 yards, 23 TD, 4.7 YPA
Packer per game: 30.9 attempts, 146.8 yards, 1.35 TD

The thing all of these teams have in common is that they simply had more attempts than the Texans. If they did nothing but carry the ball five times more per game than they would be in line with the attempts by those other teams. At their 4.4 yards per attempt, that would be an extra 22 yards per game on the ground. Suddenly, a team sitting at 112 yards per game would be up to 134 per game. That is not top five material, but it might be close o the top ten.

Three of those five teams have running quarterbacks, so there are some obstacles to overall success that the Nick Chubb signing did not overcome. Yet, the Bucs and Packers quarterbacks are more similar to Stroud, so it is possible to be a top five rushing offense without a running quarterback. However, it is not possible without two rushers getting 100 or more attempts.

Ravens: 325, 139
Eagles: 345. 150
Commanders: 187, 148
Bucs: 207, 144
Packers: 301, 103

The Bucs feel a little more like what we might expect from the Texans if they were to follow a blueprint. The Texans had two such runners in 2023, but Dameon Pierce did not have an effective season. When was the last time the Texans had two running backs with four or more yards per carry that also carried the ball 100 times or more? Deshaun Watson had 99 carries in 2018, but if we follow the rules explicitly we have to go back to 2016. Alfred Blue had 100 carries on the nose that season.

We’d have to go back to the days of Arian Foster and Ben Tate before we would come to a truly impactful one-two punch. In other words, we would have to go back to the Gary Kubiak era to see what that actually looked like. Let’s keep this simple. If Chubb can even go four yards per carry at ten carries per game while Mixon averages 15 carries a game at 4.5 yards per carry then they would combine for a little over 100 yards per game. Throw in the occasional Stroud scramble and the occasional wide receiver reverse or Woody Marks run and this team could easily average 130 to 140 yards rushing per game.

The league averaged 339.0 yards per game last season. Give the Texans an extra 20 yards per game strictly on the ground and assume their passing game remains the same and they would have averaged 339.7 yards per game. So, an improved rushing attack could elevate the Texans offense to league average. In terms of scoring offense, that is almost exactly one point per game. They obviously don’t have far to go.

In our Groupthink, we were asked what Chubb’s role will be. I can’t answer that definitively, but I know what I hope it is. I don’t want Joe Mixon carrying the ball 300 times this season. I don’t want him carrying the ball 250 times. If that is to happen then someone must step up to share the load. If that is a healthy Nick Chubb then this team could take another huge step forward. Maybe going from below average to above average offensively doesn’t look like much. An extra two or three points per game doesn’t look radically different. It could mean the difference in ten wins versus 11 or 12 wins. It could also mean the difference in keeping Stroud cleaner in the pocket and more healthy as the season wears on.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/6/11/24446913/value-of-things-anatomy-of-a-top-rushing-attack

 

[Houston Texans]

Safety Jimmie Ward’s arrest raises questions

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

How do we balance entertainment and the product?

“May you live in interesting times.” — Proverb

The above phrase is frequently associated with an old Chinese proverb, but it actually derives its origins from British diplomats in the early 20th century. That phrase has all new meaning today as we embark on the next big story for your Houston Texans. The NFL is a marketing behemoth. You have free agency, the NFL draft, the schedule release, rookie minicamps, OTAs, and team minicamps.

All of these things have been designed to create maximum buzz, but when you step back and look at it, it is usually much ado about not very much. Still, TV talking heads, radio talking heads, and bloggers alike comment on these things as if they are the most important news of the week. People on the NFL flagship stations are often told to spend the majority of their air time talking about the hometown team whether there is something to say or not.

I make no bones about the fact that this has not been a horribly interesting offseason for the Texans up to this point. Sure, there are questions about the team and its players as there always has been and always will be. Will the offensive line be fixed? Will the new offense generate more yards and points than the old one? Will the Texans surround C.J. Stroud with more talent? Will he take the next step as a quarterback? These are all good questions, but we have no more definitive answers today than we had in January. So, I and other writers on this site have struggled to find engaging topics to write about.

As you can see on the site, Jimmie Ward was arrested early Thursday morning with felony charges. This probably is the most interesting story of the offseason for the Texans because it goes right to the heart of sports as an entertainment product itself. Where do the Texans go from here?

Instant gratification​

The heart of every story I mentioned above is shot through the prism of the modern journalistic world. I suppose I am a professional commentator in the strictest of senses. I am not highly compensated if barely at all, but any media critique has to be shot through the prism that I am a part of it and not simply standing aside while other folks talk about it. All of these stories have one thing in common: there seems to be an overwhelming desire for folks to come to quick conclusions.

I can’t in this case. We literally just know about the arrest. Arrest does not mean guilty. There are also tons of gray area as to what it could entail. So, no one should be making grand pronouncements about what should happen. All declarations must be qualified based on whether he is in fact guilty of any crime and what exact crime he would be guilty of in that case.

So, anything I say from here on out is purely speculative and theoretical. Anyone making a sweeping statement about what should happen should probably not be trusted unless they have information that we don’t. That is not a satisfactory answer for most people, but it is a honest answer and we need to strive for fairness and balance as much as we possibly can.

The Social Debate​

The Jason Tucker situation in Baltimore is a perfect example of this debate. The sad reality is that society is not fair. Often, someone’s culpability and ultimate punishment depends on their perceived value. Sports is not alone in this regard. An average, ordinary citizen can see their life destroyed by such allegations. Someone perceived to be talented or important can be shielded from the negative impacts of such things.

As crass as it sounds, you can almost imagine a sliding scale for these things. A star quarterback is immune. A starter at any other position might be immune depending on how good they are. A backup is probably not immune. At a certain point, we have to ask ourselves if this is really the world we want.

Teams must way the value of the player on the field with their value off the field. How many scumbags can a team have before they lose a significant portion of the fanbase? Make no mistake, there are a number of fans that would root for the hometown team no matter who suits up for them. There are also a number of fans that won’t. The bean counters will go through a cost/benefit analysis that is cold, calculated, and in many instances can seem cruel.

Jimmie Ward? He was a starter the last two years when healthy. The Texans valued his veteran leadership and he did make some key plays while on the field. Due to some of their offseason moves (notably the trade for C.J. Gardner-Johnson) Ward is no longer guaranteed a starting spot. Does this ultimately change the calculus in a situation like this? Should it?

Admittedly, my attitudes on this have evolved as I have gotten older. I used to be able to hold my nose and root for scumbags if they were good enough to help my team win. As I have gotten older and wiser, my attitude has changed. Is Jimmie Ward a scumbag? That’s a complicated and nuanced question even if we assume that all of the allegations are true. Professional sports are entertainment and we have to reckon with how entertaining it is to have to root for people that are bad human beings. Again, we don’t know how bad a human being he is.

Circumstances change and they every situation is different. If someone is a good person for most of their life, does one horrible situation change all of that? That is also a sliding scale. How horrible is the situation? Murder is obviously a deal breaker. There are other crimes that are obvious deal breakers as well. Domestic violence exists within that gray area for many people.

This brings us back to the proverb at the beginning. We live in interesting times and this is an interesting dilemma. I’m not sure there is an elegant solution to this problem. Cutting someone like Ward might be an overreaction if this is a one time thing and if it is relatively minor. Anything short of that might be an under reaction if it is not minor and not a one time thing. Time will usually tell. If the Ray Rice situation has taught us all anything, it is that a rush to judgment almost always produces a bad result. We have to let this thing play out and all facts to come to light. Then, the Texans can reach the wisest decision possible.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/6/12/24448137/safety-jimmie-wards-arrest-raises-questions

 

[Houston Texans]

Defensive Depth Dilemma: Navigating Ronald Darby’s Retirement

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

Potential options for the Texans secondary.

The Houston Texans are almost completely locked in within their secondary, as far as starters go, but one of their top backup cornerbacks just retired.

Ronald Darby was signed earlier this offseason by Houston, and before training camp even begun, he decided to hang the cleats up. Darby would’ve been a solid, veteran presence that could have started if needed.

Now that Darby is gone, Houston has looked outside of the building for answers, working out several players. One of those players is Damon Arnette, who was a first-round pick by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2020 NFL Draft. Another veteran being worked out by Houston is Duke Shelley, who played for the Minnesota Vikings last season.

If Houston opts to stay within the building and pass on some veteran options, there are several players that they should consider.

OPTION ONE: JAYLIN SMITH ​

One of those options is Jaylin Smith, who was drafted in the third-round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Smith is someone that is extremely versatile, having played both inside and outside cornerback, along with safety.

Since the start of organized training activities, Smith has been talked about very highly by his teammates.

“He soaks up everything taught to him and applies it,” said Texans CB Derek Stingley Jr. said to Big Sarge Media about rookie CB Jaylin Smith. #Texans #Sarge #TexansTailgateTalk pic.twitter.com/MyHuualIce

— BIG SARGE MEDIA LLC (@BigSargeSportz) June 7, 2025​

If Smith can continue to impress throughout training camp, along with the preseason, it would not be a surprise to see him get some opportunities on defense.

OPTION TWO: TREMON SMITH ​

Smith played for the Texans in 2021, along with 2022, therefore this will be his second stint with the team, and he is the type of person that shouldn’t have left in the first place.

Not only can he provide depth at cornerback, but he is also a special teams ace, arguably one of the best in football, and his presence in that department has been missed.

He signed a two-year, $6.5M deal with the Texans earlier this offseason, and he will be one of the top backups for DeMeco Ryans’ defense.

OPTION THREE: MYLES BRYANT​

Bryant was signed by the Texans last offseason, and due to injuries, got to play significant snaps in 2024, and he was not bad when given those opportunities. If the Texans have the same injury bug in the secondary, they know that they have someone that can contribute at a decent level.

The Texans start training camp in about a month, and these three players will have the opportunity to carve out a name for themselves on defense.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...lemma-navigating-ronald-darbys-retirement-nfl

 

[Houston Texans]

Battle Red Blog Q&A on the impact of Texans signing Nick Chubb

Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images

The Battle Red Blog writers gathered to discuss the signing of RB Nick Chubb

Texans signed Nick Chubb earlier this week and While the impact on each of the current running backs on the roster is still being settled, it’s clear Houston has plans to implement the four-time Pro Bowler in the offense in a meaningful way. Chubb enters an extremely crowded locker room full of veterans and unproven youngsters.

This week, I asked the writers of the Battle Red Blog three questions surrounding the addition of Nick Chubb.

1) What role will Chubb have in the offense? ​

2) Who is hurt more; Dameon Pierce or rookie Woody Marks? ​

3) Do you think this is a sign that Joe Mixon’s foot injury is more severe than we realize?​

L4Blitzer:​

Not a move that was on many fans’ bingo cards before the weekend, but this is another of Caserio’s low-risk/high-reward free agency signings. If Chubb has anything in the tank, he could be a good asset for the team, or at least Cam Akers Part Deux, where Houston trades him for a reasonable pick. To answer the questions:

1) Chubb would seem to be a rotational back, spelling Mixon and/or filling in if/when Mixon gets injured. If the power that Chubb showed before his injuries returns, he could be a good short-yardage/red-zone power back, something the squad desperately needs.

2) As for who on the depth chart is most in danger with Chubb’s signing, presuming that Chubb is healthy enough to make an impact in the preseason, perhaps Pierce might be the odd-man out. Pierce is in the final year or his rookie deal, so it is critical for him to play like he did to close out the 2024-25 season. That Pierce is an effective kick-returner might help keep him around, but that would likely be a role that Marks would play. Sure, Pierce could also be trade-bait for Houston (see Akers, Cam). It is also possible Houston keeps Pierce around anyway, and given that Marks is a rookie who Houston gave up some draft capital to pick, you might see both remain on the roster when camp breaks.

3) As for the Mixon injury, I wouldn’t read too much into that. Chubb was likely a deal that Caserio couldn’t pass up. Now, if Mixon still has that same injury come late August, then we have a different conversation about Chubb’s June signing.

Vballretired:​

Let me take these one by one. I’d also ask the good folks to read my Value of Things on the subject.

1) I suspect that Chubb will be a traditional backup running back where he will give Mixon a series or two off a day. That could mean between five and ten carries a game.

2) I think Pierce’s days are numbered. He really doesn’t offer much outside of a backup role. Obviously we will have to see if Chubb has anything left in the tank in training camp. Marks always has struck me as a third down back and I don’t think that changes. Maybe he develops into more, but this move takes that expectation off his plate.

3) I don’t think the foot injury has much to do with it, but I could be wrong. I think an honest to Durga second back was always a priority and this is more a hedge on Marks not being an every down back or Pierce being an any down back.

Patrick.H: ​

1) He’ll probably be the thunder to Joe Mixon’s lightning (or vice versa) assuming he can crack the opening day roster.

2) This has to spell the end of Dameon Pierce’s tenure as a Houston Texan. Which is a shame because I still think he’s got some value but this team just can’t seem to get him in a position to succeed. And now that he’s buried in the depth chart and Marks likely being seen as the RB of the future, it just makes sense to let Pierce go make his career elsewhere.

3) I don’t think they’re worried about his foot. This is more along the lines of taking a flyer on a player that might or might not be able to contribute as RB2, a deal with little risk and high reward; otherwise known as a Caserio Special.

Kenneth L: ​

Unlike L4Blitzer, I actually was early on the trail for bringing Nick Chubb to Houston when I listed him as the Top Free Agent Running Back Option. This is what I wrote:

Chubb is parting ways with Cleveland after eight highly productive seasons laden with recent and serious injuries. The mere fact that Chubb debuted in the 2024 season illustrates his humanoid-like capabilities. At 29 and with 1,340 rushing attempts to his name, there isn’t much Chubb can offer long-term. However, the upside is highly mesmerizing. Chubb can be a cheap roll-of-the-dice and an ideal fit in the new run scheme offensive coordinator Nick Caley will debut.

But let me get to the questions I proposed:

1) I truly think Chubb will have a bigger role than fans project. Chubb may not be the athlete he was two seasons ago, but he is a dynamic, downhill asset with “mesmerizing” upside. Particularly considering how poor Houston’s offense was without Mixon, adding Chubb as a complement rather than backup is the tone that I’ve received from Nick Caserio.

2) Rookie Woody Marks role feels greatly impacted, particularly the ability to support on third downs. Nick Chubb is by far a more capable third down back and cannot be ignored in either the run or pass game. Before the addition of Chubb, Marks appeared slated to absorb passing responsibilities for the RB position and develop into a future starting back. Now, he has to compete for a roster spot first before even considering himself for a role. Last year’s draft pick RB Jawhar Jordan should be a reminder that even though you’re drafted doesn’t mean you’ll make the roster.

3) I personally do. It would be difficult to not connect the two incidents; Joe Mixon seen limping around in a walking boot at voluntary OTAs and Nick Chubb signing a contract several days later. The Texans know they taxed Mixon too strenuously last season and have to both conserve Mixon for a 17+ game season plus provide a solid Plan B if he’s out for any time in 2025.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...q-a-on-the-impact-of-texans-signing-nick-chub

 

[Houston Texans]

Is Houston Texans rookie Jayden Higgins another Nico Collins?

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

WR2 locked in the house?

While all eyes were fixated on Houston Texans latest free agent signee, Nick Chubb, a rookie was busy lighting the mini camp on fire.

For those who came in late, with the 34th overall pick in the draft, the Texans selected Jayden Higgins, wide receiver from Iowa State.

While at Iowa State, Higgins caught 140 passes for 2166 yards and 15 touchdowns. All in just 2 seasons. Prior to that, he played for Eastern Kentucky for 2 years. Before transferring to the FCS school, Higgins amassed 87 catches for 1151 yards and 13 touchdowns.

What has he done since entering the NFL?

This:

Good lord https://t.co/Y7HLDXn1up

— Nick Schwager (@NickSchwagerNFL) June 10, 2025​

And this:

Rookie WR Jayden Higgins already making one-handed grabs for the Texans, via @jonmalexander:pic.twitter.com/nJPOrQskII

— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) June 10, 2025​

Now, if you’ve been around these parts for any amount of time, you might feel a little deja vu. Every off-season, it seems we watch a young wide receiver do amazing, highlight reel stuff on the practice fields. Sometimes that translates to the preseason games. Rarely does it manifest when it matters most: Gameday.

But the vibe surrounding Higgins is different. He isn’t a project, or a late round flyer. He isn’t a guy who had his potential side-tracked in college. He was a top 35 draft pick. By an organization that has been hitting on top draft picks a lot lately.

If new offensive coordinator Nick Calley and offensive line coach Cole Popovich can get the o-line fixed, and the injury bug doesn’t take too big a bite out of this team, watch out.

With Mixon and Chubb taking hand-offs, C.J. Stroud continuing to grow into the all-star he is, and Collins taking his main dose of passes, Higgins is in a low key spot to thrive.

DeMeco Ryans on Jayden Higgins & his standout day in day 1 of mini camp:

“He’s showing that right now he could be an impact player for us… it means a lots to the entire team seeing him thrive.” https://t.co/ov1cG9X2j7 pic.twitter.com/izMByutYeu

— Houston Stressans (@TexansCommenter) June 11, 2025​

Tune in today for more highlight reels of Higgins, that is if people aren’t still fixated on Chubbs.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...ns-rookie-jayden-higgins-another-nico-collins

 

[Houston Texans]

Jimmie Ward facing felony assault charge following Thursday arrest

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Texans safety Jimmie Ward is facing a felony assault charge stemming from an arrest early Thursday morning.

At 5:38 a.m. CT on Thursday morning, Texans safety Jimmie Ward was arrested in Montgomery, Texas and is now facing a felony assault charge, per the Montgomery County jail website. Per ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime, Ward is still in custody.

#Texans safety Jimmie Ward is facing a felony assault family violence charge in Montgomery County following an incident at his home early Thursday morning.

The team says they are aware of the situation. Ward has started 20 games over the past two seasons for Houston. pic.twitter.com/LfpT8RmuCo

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) June 12, 2025​

Omar Majzoub, the Texans senior director of communications, publicly stated that the team is aware of the report involving War and that they “are gathering more information and have no further comment at this time.”

Ward spent nine seasons with the San Francisco 49ers prior to joining the Texans in 2023 when he signed a two-year, $13 million deal. The decision to join Houston stemmed from Ward’s and head coach Demeco Ryans’ time together with the Niners.

The 2025 season is the final year of Ward’s contract. He’s currently set to have a cap hit of $5,669,118 and will be an unrestricted free agent this coming March.

In his two seasons (20 starts) with the Texans thus far, Ward has accumulated 98 total tackles, five tackles for loss, seven pass breakups, three interceptions, one pick-six, and a forced fumble.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...lony-assault-charge-following-thursday-arrest

 

[Houston Texans]

Nick Chubb’s reckoning on the Houston Texans running back room

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Houston, you have a backup running back....

There are few transactions in Houston Texans history that have made a curmudgeon like me giggle. A short, silly, and gleeful laugh emitted from my soul. Adding four-time Pro Bowl running back Nick Chubb to the Houston Texans offense is a savvy and exhilarating decision.

The excitement can be felt throughout Houston, but the addition will illicit a different emotion in the running back room at NRG Stadium. Each current RB on the Houston Texans’ roster will feel the Texas summer heat from this acquisition. We will break down how Nick Chubb impacts each running back and the sentiment associated with each player.

NFL teams on average keep three, sometimes four running backs on a 53-man roster so keep that in mind when reviewing this analysis.

Joe Mixon​

Post-Signing Sentiment: growing concern for injury

If the Texans were fully confident in Joe Mixon’s health heading into 2024, I do not think they still pull this move off. Mixon was seen in a walking boot during voluntary summer workouts stemming from an offseason surgery.

I’m starting to get concerned about Joe Mixon.

High-ankle sprain in 2024 - missed 3 games

Recently spotted in a walking boot after having an offseason foot/ankle/leg (?) surgery. There’s been no details released yet.

The Texans have recently been linked to multiple RBs working…

— Jesse Morse, M.D. (@DrJesseMorse) June 8, 2025

The Texans overused Mixon in their first season with him and paid the price. Assuming he’s fully healthy, Mixon will still see a reduced workload with Chubb on the roster—even after topping 1,000 rushing yards in 2024.

I imagine both he and Mixon will by vying for starting reps throughout training camp. The last time Nick Chubb wasn’t the starter, he was a sophomore running back in high school.

Dare Ogumbowale​

Post-Chubb Signing Sentiment: holding out hope against impending doom

Dare Ogumbowale is that girl you just can’t quit. He’s that unfinished chocolate cake calling your name in your freezer. Dare has been the understudy’s understudy in Houston for three seasons now primarily in pass blocking duties and has been cast off by fans each of those three seasons.

His true strength has been his availability; Ogumbowale was the only healthy RB or TE for all 17 games. That counts. The ninth-year running back may be more impacted by the change in offensive coordinator than Nick Chubb’s attendance in Houston, but the added competition can’t be good for Ogumbowale.

And who knows... he once again was brought back on a one-year contract and will be in Deep Steel Blue until someone knocks him off his spot on the depth chart.

Woody Marks​

Post-Chubb Signing Sentiment: lack of confidence

If the Texans felt confident in their rookie, why would they go out of their way to risk $5M on Chubb?

The rookie can’t be enjoying the added competition in an already crowded running back room. Marks’ hope is that Chubb and Pierce are duplicative in their roles on the offense and the Texans honor their commitment to the rookie. Marks is a unique talent on the roster and deserves to develop on the team.

He needs to endure the short term chaos to receive long-term benefits. Between Pierce’s ticking clock, Mixon’s injury, Dare’s age and usefulness, and Chubb’s short-term lease, Marks path to a legitimate role is to stay alive in year one.

History isn’t on Marks side as multiple young running backs have “waited their turn” only to be turned away.

Dameon Pierce​

Post-Chubb Signing Sentiment: an unlikely death knell

If you scrolled through this article for any one player, I imagine it was for Dameon Pierce.

The NFL is not going to wait on any one player to figure it out... unless their name is Aaron Rogers. Pierce’s descent from his fantastic rookie season has been steep, and the team isn’t holding out any hope (or a roster spot) any longer.

The reason? Chubb absorbs Pierce’s role as a hard-nosed, downhill running back capable of taking the dirty work away from Mixon. With the added context that Houston selected Woody Marks in the draft as a receiving-focused RB, Pierce’s role and fit have been diminished.

The one fact keeping Pierce in play: Houston kept FIVE running backs on the 53-man roster last season.

The Initial 53-Man Roster pic.twitter.com/wzVehxjtyG

— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 27, 2024​

If that holds true or even the Texans keep four, Pierce is in a dead heat with Ogumbowale for the last remaining running back spot on the roster.

Jawhar Jordan​

Post-Chubb Signing Sentiment: will never get a shot

The hits keep on coming for the second-year running back from Louisville. Jordan never left the practice squad for the Texans in 2024. The selection of Woody Marks and the addition of Chubb buries him in a mountain of competition for snaps. Being the sixth of anything on an NFL roster doesn’t bode well... especially if it is for a running back. It’s a shame Houston won’t give Jordan a shot beyond the practice squad.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...oning-on-the-houston-texans-running-back-room

 

[Houston Texans]

Houston Texans training camp & joint practice dates

Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Almost therrrreeee...

As summer hits full-on this week, it can mean only 1 thing: NFL training camps are about to begin.

H-Town is seeing lots of excitement around the refined 2025 Houston Texans. All this thanks to a new offensive coordinator, newly remade offensive line, several key free agent additions and some promising rookie talent.

Bringing in a new offensive coordinator often sets a steep learning curve. Modern NFL playbooks are ousually several inches thick, involve new scheme concepts, diverse blocking schemes, a myriad of route trees, and more information all digested through its own language.

New faces, new playbooks and new language around play execution opens a big chance for confusion and miscommunication. One thing that sets good coordinators apart from great ones is the ability to take all that complexity and make it easily digestible for the players.

Cristian Kirk on Nick Caley:

“Nick is all ball. Very intelligent, very smart. Does a great job communicating to us ( ).

Mentions it’s been “easy to learn” on new O & credits WR coach Ben McDaniels.

“This offense is dynamic. A lot of motions. A lot of pre-snap adjustments.” pic.twitter.com/j5NM7pg4Cq

— Houston Stressans (@TexansCommenter) June 3, 2025​

In preparation for all that, the players must also adjust to a remodeled offensive line. Blocking schemes change, tendencies from old players to new differ, split-second reactions vary wildly from one lineman to the next.

If Calley and line coach Cole Popovich can get those 5 big men on the same page, everything else gets easier.

One of my favorite things to come from Texans OTAs is new OT Trent Brown showing up as a vet who cannot practice to help develop younger OTs like Fisher & Ersery.

When people talk about a mentality switch on the OL this is what they mean. pic.twitter.com/JFmACJ3l7w

— Jacob (@TexansJacob) June 8, 2025​

New, veteran wide receiver Christian Kirk and rookie Jayden Higgins have to learn the new languages, new route trees, new expectations. All while building chemistry with quarterback C.J. Stroud and each other.

Latest veteran addition Nick Chubb will need to do all those things and decipher blocking schemes to find the holes and spot where he can pound the rock.

And all that’s just some of the offense.

Houston Texans Training Camp Dates​

Calley and the new look offense begin Training Camp 2025 on July 22nd. Both rookies and vets.

Fast forward to August 14th and the Texans will host the Carolina Panthers for joint practices in the shadow of NRG stadium. The two teams will face off in a preseason game on Saturday, August 16th. Just a few short years ago many thought Stroud vs Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young was an epic battle waiting to happen. Fortunately for Houston, Stroud’s stock has headed for orbit while Young’s has remained on the launchpad for Carolina. It will be interesting to see how many media outlets try to hype that angle when the game nears.

The Texans new look WR room during OTAs pic.twitter.com/4WuzSbXlRr

— Jacob (@TexansJacob) May 28, 2025​

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/6/19/24452043/houston-texans-training-camp-joint-practice-dates

 

[Houston Texans]

Houston Texans Rookie Film Analysis: Luke Lachey

Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Texans last pick has a great shot to make the roster

Round four of my breakdown of every Texans pick from the 2025 NFL Draft takes us to the last pick in this class. I want to highlight a player under-evaluated through the draft process. Luke Lachey fell down draft boards and into the Texans’ lap with the 255th pick partially due to injury and partially due to the mundanity of Iowa’s offense in 2024.

Past Texans 2025 Draft Pick Film Reviews:

Jaylin Noel

Woody Marks

Kyonte Hamilton

Lachey is an intriguing case; his best season was in 2022 where he caught 28 passes as the TE2 next to future star Sam LaPorta. That season he also hauled in four touchdowns to LaPorta’s one. Lachey was tabbed as the “next great Iowa tight end” before his 2023 season was cut short after just three games due to an ankle injury. In 2024, he was the second leading receiver in Iowa’s offense with (only) 28 catches, which isn’t saying much.

Let’s dive into the film watched for this analysis:

Games watched: vs. Northwestern, at Ohio State, at Iowa State, vs Nebraska

Luke Lachey is a fascinating case. Pre-injury, he was on a clear path to the first round. He has elite size and once had elite quickness, fluidity, and acceleration as a route-runner. Post-injury was a different story athletically.

If he can find that again, may be a huge steal pic.twitter.com/olHouYfaiI

— Max Toscano (@maxtoscano1) April 26, 2025

It’s evident his ankle injury took a toll on his play. He doesn’t explode off the line of scrimmage, but rather gains speed 5-10 yards into route. Lachey isn’t shifty either; once he secures the ball—treating it like an uncut gem—he charges straight ahead until someone chops him down. Even so, Lachey was more productive early in 2024 rather than later due to anemic quarterback play down the stretch.

One noticeable curiosity is that he’s a hands catcher when running routes, but body catches balls on curl or sit routes. It’s extremely odd and shows up on tape consistently. Corner and post routes are where Lachey shines, but due to offensive woes he stuck to option, curl and out routes.

Run blocking is where his potential fit is prevalent. Iowa deployed him as a weak side blocker in their zone and power-heavy schemes. He is capable of setting an edge but better at sealing off the backside zone.

Lachey checks all the boxes for a late-round Houston Texan. He’s a team captain, has multiple years of productivity, comes from a big program, and fills a role at position of need.

Strengths:​

• Four-time academic All-Big Ten and son of former first round pick Jim Lachey
• Short but diverse route tree
• Athletic; fourth in the vertical, sixth in the broad jump at NFL Combine
• Understands leverage at top of route
• Four first downs on five catches against Ohio State.
• Willing blocker with room to grow into frame and technique

Weaknesses: ​

• Best film was in 2022 pre-injury; may not have same agility and upfield speed
• Limited downfield speed based on tap, but could be a factor of the offense
• Inconsistent QB play; six QBs in four seasons lends itself to stunted
• Needs 8-10 pounds of muscle mass onto frame; gets dislodged in run game too easily
• Out routes require too many steps in break

Can Luke Lachey become a starter for the Houston Texans? @McShay13 doesn’t think it’s too far fetched. Check out this clip from the McShay show with @yougoodmuench Luke is Todd’s favorite Pick from round 7! #Htownmade pic.twitter.com/xwmG0H8AyZ

— Mr.Optimistic (@MrOptimisticHou) May 15, 2025

The Fit in Houston:​

I could make the argument that this seventh rounder may be the best “fit” out of all nine picks in this class. Hear me out:

1. The Texans had statistically the worst blocking tight end group in the league in 2024
2. Brevin Jordan’s and Cade Stover’s injuries in 2024 both limit their upside and stunted their growth in a season they were needed dearly
3. Dalton Schultz is 28 and disappeared from the offense until the last few weeks
4. New OC Nick Caley is a former tight ends coach

Conceptually, Lachey could fight for the last remaining roster spot and not suit up on game days. However, he would benefit from two months on the practice squad before being elevated.

Overall Analysis: ​

Possibly the hardest film review I’ll have to complete all offseason due to the Iowa offense being debilitatingly boring, Lachey had to adapt to three different QBs with completely different capabilities. He excelled the most with a pass-first QB that allowed him to find openings in defenses and be a check down option.

I don’t believe Lachey is this ‘run blocking prodigy’ he’s being heralded as, and there isn’t much pass blocking film either. He was rarely used on the run-side and was more utilized sealing the back side of the play.

As for the pass game, he had good hands and knows the position well, but he doesn’t jump off the tape with acceleration or athleticism after the catch. I don’t see him as a red zone threat either based on his utilization at Iowa.

All said, Lachey is a technically sound and well-rounded tight end who should fit the offense well in 2025. He fits a need, but needs to get back to full strength before he can make an impact in Houston.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/6/18/24444659/houston-texans-rookie-film-analysis-luke-lachey

 

[Houston Texans]

Value of Things: Finding the Hole

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

What is the one blind spot on the Texans roster?

As we sit here in mid June waiting for the beginning of training camp, most fans take a look at the rosters of their favorite teams and project potential holes or weaknesses. When you have a playoff team that usually ends up being in the singular form. When you are the David Culley Houston Texans all you see are holes. So, it is often in the eye of the beholder or beer holder as it were.

Yet, we cannot deny that all crises are opportunities. Every NFL championship had a spot or two in camp that looked problematic. They were just fortunate enough that a seemingly unknown player stepped up to fill the void. In June, this just lingers in the air like a fart in an elevator. The Texans do have some elbow room left to maneuver under the cap. Do they look for another available free agent or let internal candidates take a run at it?

The arrest of Jimmie Ward highlights a potential problem for the Texans. Ward was technically not slated to start. The starting safety spots were going to Calen Bullock, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Jalen Pitre respectively. Pitre is serving as a sort of hybid linebacker, so he may count as a safety in name only. Ward would have been the next man up and as a guy that started 20 games in two seasons with the Texans, that’s quite the depth to have.

I firmly believe people are innocent until proven guilty and we have certainly seen our fair share of players that have been accused but never criminally charged with domestic battery. None of them avoided suspension. The likely course of action is for Ward to be put on the commissioner’s exempt list until any investigation (criminal and league) is finished. The standard course from there even for players not charged is a four to six game suspension.

This assumes that Ward is even a Texan. Some alleged details came out after our initial articles last week that we released. Suffice it to say, it is troublesome. I hate predicting anything, but I have to think the odds are good that he will be released. If that happens, you will be without a primary backup safety.

We also saw last season that the Texans were without a primary backup corner. Sure, they had guys on the roster, but no one was really capable of filling in once Kamari Lassiter or Derek Stingley left the field. When you look at the depth chart for ESPN, It’s not really a pretty sight. However, one name jumps off the page and that is the player penciled in to backup Jalen Pitre at nickelback.

Smith was listed as a safety, defensive back, and corner in four seasons at USC. The interesting thing is that there was no other prospect that had a wider range of opinions on him from the Texans draft. Some thought he was picked two or three rounds too early while others believed he was a draft steal. Most of the rookies on the offensive side of the ball get more publicity, but as we sit right now, Smith might be an under radar candidate for most important Texans rookie.

If you read that correctly, I am not saying he will be the best Texans rookie. I am not saying he will have the best career. I am simply saying that whether he is effective or not might have more of an impact on the Texans defense than anything those offensive players do. I hate comparing him to a player, but perhaps it is best to focus on the role that player served.

In terms of his role, he might be most comparable to Eric Murray. Murray totaled over 900 snaps on defense last year for the Texans. Was that ideal? He had a 63.8 grade for PFF which puts him in the average range. You don’t want too many of your secondary defenders to be average in a good defense, but if he is the first guy off the bench then that’s pretty damn good. Most of those snaps came at free safety, but some of them came as an inside corner.

As someone that has been watching the team since the beginning, it is very difficult for me to type the words “we need someone like Eric Murray.” Murray is a symbol of the excess of the Bill O’Brien era. However, once a new regime figured out he wasn’t a starting corner or starting safety, he settled into a comfortable role as a backup in both. The Texans need a player that can play 500 or 600 snaps in a pinch if one of those primary guys loses time to injury.

Theoretically, a third round pick should be able to do those things. This is particularly true for a player that spent time in college at both positions. It is also possible the team adds a warm body to the corner room or safety room just to be sure. Anyone that has read my stuff long enough knows I am not prone to hyperbole. This defense has a chance to be special. People could talk about it like they talked about those 2011 and 2012 defenses when J.J. Watt was just getting going. They could be even better than that. They have the depth on the defensive line and in the linebacking core. The key could end up being depth in the secondary. Hopefully, Jaylin Smith can fill that void.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/6/18/24451145/value-of-things-finding-the-hole

 

[Houston Texans]

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud: Set up for success in 2025?

Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images

A look into whether C.J. Stroud is set up for success this upcoming season.

The Houston Texans are entering year three with C.J. Stroud at quarterback, and there are several reasons to debate whether or not he is set up for success throughout the 2025 season.

Offensive Weapons: Depth and Firepower​

As far as weapons go, the Texans have done a good job surrounding their young quarterback with the pieces needed to produce on a consistent basis.

They already have their number one wide receiver in Nico Collins, who has grown into one of the best players in football at his position, to go along with Christian Kirk, who was acquired from the Jacksonville Jaguars earlier this offseason.

Despite having two good wide receivers already in the building, the front office felt like they needed to add even more depth to the room, which turned into drafting Jayden Higgins in the second-round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and Jaylin Noel in the third-round.

Higgins and Noel were teammates at Iowa State, meaning they will come in and have immediate chemistry on and off the field.

They also have a proven veteran at tight end in Dalton Schultz, who is a solid player at his best, along with Brevin Jordan and Cade Stover, who are still proving themselves.

Ground Game: A Two-Headed Monster​

Another strong position group that will be able to take pressure off Stroud is the running back room. Joe Mixon is their starter, and he was incredible last season, despite dealing with an ankle injury and poor offensive line play all year. Mixon is enough to handle the load, but in order to keep the talented runner fresh, they also added All-Pro running back Nick Chubb, creating one of the most interesting running back tandems in football at the moment.

Not only that, but they also have Dameon Pierce on the roster, who can provide depth in several areas.

Offensive Line: Work in Progress​

Not only did Texans General Manager Nick Caserio completely overhaul the wide receiver room, they also did the same with the offensive line room. The Texans offensive line group has been horrendous throughout Stroud’s first two years in the league, and they just traded away their best player in Laremy Tunsil.

The good news is that Houston fired both their offensive coordinator, along with their offensive line coach after the 2024 season, and that in itself should lead to better results instantly.

The Texans drafted an offensive tackle in the second-round in Aireontae Ersery, and it would not be a surprise to see him starting at some point, along with Cam Robinson or Blake Fisher on the other side.

Houston also added several interior offensive lineman throughout free agency, and two of them could end up starting. Those two players are Pro Bowl guard Laken Tomlinson, along with center Jake Andrews. Former first-round offensive tackle Tytus Howard is expected to slide inside to guard, where he has played well.

Coaching: Fresh Faces, Familiar Ties​

As far as coaching goes, the Texans are set up for success under head coach DeMeco Ryans. Ryans came in during a rebuild, and provided juice to the organization, and has brought his team to the playoffs in consecutive years, winning two of them. Players actively want to come to Houston and play for him, and it is no surprise why.

Since DeMeco Ryans may be seen as a defensive minded head coach, and rightfully so, that makes their offensive staff that much more crucial towards their success.

The Texans hired former Los Angeles Rams tight ends coach Nick Caley to be their new offensive coordinator, and he also has ties to general manager Nick Caserio from their days in New England.

Caley is someone that many around the league believe is trending towards being a head coach in the league one day, and if he can turn the Texans offense around quickly, it would not be a surprise for that to become a reality sooner rather than later. Caley was seen as one of, if not the top candidate available throughout this offensive coordinator hiring cycle.

Now arguably the most important piece to the Texans success in 2025, Cole Popovich. Popovich was promoted from assistant offensive line coach, to the main guy in charge. Popovich also has ties to Caley from their days in New England, meaning their chemistry could build rather quickly.

Popovich is going to have a completely different philosophy from last season, and that is much needed for a group that struggled immensely. The Texans probably do not currently possess the talent on the offensive line to be a top group, but they could very well take a jump from one of the worst, to possibly middle of the pack, and that may be good enough for this Texans team to make a deep playoff run.

The Bottom Line​

Overall, Stroud is set up for success, but the season largely depends on how the offensive line group performs on a consistent basis. Houston’s defense is stacked from top to bottom, they have a well above average group of weapons, and a good coaching staff, but none of that means anything if Stroud can not receive protection in the pocket.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...ack-c-j-stroud-set-up-for-success-in-2025-nfl

 

[Houston Texans]

Houston Texans toiling with $43 million dollar dead cap hit

Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

The McNair's are basically paying for two full offensive lines

Whether via trade or outright releasing a player, every team has to cut fat on their roster. “Due to the structure of NFL contracts, when a team chooses to forgo the remainder of a player’s deal, it assumes a financial penalty known as dead cap. Spotrac defines Dead Cap money as:

Any future, unpaid, guaranteed salary or bonus + any already paid signing bonus that hasn’t yet been allocated to the salary cap becomes the responsibility of the team in the event of a release.

For the Texans entering the 2025 offseason, they had two big decisions to make; what to do with Stefon Diggs and whether to maintain the extremely poor, extremely expensive offensive line.

They chose to clean house. Those decisions plus several others incurred $43M dollar dead cap bill that accounts for over 15% of the Texans salary cap this season. That’s 10th most in the NFL next season, but separately is only half of San Francisco 49er’s league-leading $91.7M dead cap hit.

72% of the Texans dead cap can be attributed to Laremy Tunsil and Stefon Diggs. Houston’s restructuring of Stefon Diggs’ ghastly contract from Buffalo was meant to offer Houston protection if Diggs personality got in the way of his play. It wasn’t supposed to protect against his first major injury of his career. Because Nick Caserio voided the last three years in Diggs’ contract, Houston owes him $15M this year to now suit up for the New England Patriots.

Diggs is not unfamiliar with receiving large paychecks from former teams. When the Buffalo Bills traded him to Houston, they took on the largest non-QB dead cap in NFL History.

#NFL TRADE

Texans Acquire
WR Stefon Diggs
2024 6th Rd Pick
2025 5th Rd Pick

Bills Acquire
2025 2nd Rd Pick

Diggs brings a 4 year, $75M contract to Houston ($18.5M guaranteed in 2024), leaving behind $31M of dead cap to Buffalo ($4M cap lost).https://t.co/vg6StA9rlZ

— Spotrac (@spotrac) April 3, 2024

Fortunately, not all of the cash is going to players to play for other teams. There are a few rookies who were cut and then resigned later via the practice squad. Namely, Jawhar Jordan and Solomon Byrd from the 2024 class are still Texans with dual income in 2024 (from their original contracts and new ones after resigning.

After Diggs and Tunsil, a pair of former lineman line the Texans dead cap receipt. Unsurprisingly it’s Shaq Mason and Kenyon Green, the former free agent and first rounder who were both unceremoniously cast off this offseason. They were casualties of Houston recasting the offensive line this offseason.

The lowest amount owed goes to Killian Zierer, the 6’7 undrafted left tackle from Munich, Germany. Houston owes the now Atlanta Falcon $3,334, just less than the Apple Vision Pro costs.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...s-toiling-with-43-million-dollar-dead-cap-hit

 

[Houston Texans]

POLL: Houston Texans RB3 - Dameon Pierce or Dare Ogunbowale?

Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

One’s a keeper - the other might need a resume refresh

Last season the Houston Texans leaned hard on Joe Mixon as the RB1 and he responded with 1016 yards, 52 first downs and 11 touchdowns on the ground.

Recently they added Nick Chubb to the running back bullpen, likely meaning either Dameon Pierce or Dare Ogunbowale is the odd man out for the 2025 season.

Most Texans fans should recall Pierce’s rookie campaign. In fact, he was just about the lone highlight for the team that year. Unfortunately for the young bruiser-back, he’s yet to come anywhere near close to that output since. Often become an afterthought, or not a thought at all.

Texans RB Dameon Pierce is out for the remainder of the season with an Ankle injury

What a rookie campaign ️ pic.twitter.com/PuzbzmKDsh

— Andrew Bohovich (@DrewScouts) December 17, 2022​

Pierce had 40 rushes for 293 yards, 7 first downs and 2 touchdowns on the ground in 2024. He also caught 2 passes for a whopping 2 additional yards.

Ogunbowale had 30 chances to pound the rock, coming away with 112 yards, 5 first downs and no ground scores. However, he did catch 19 passes for 198 yards, 8 first downs and 1 air score.

The 9th year tailback landed on the Texans after stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Washington Whatevers.

C.J. Stroud to Dare Ogunbowale in Mini-Camp:

But look at the Texans OL pick up that stunt pic.twitter.com/z9HYngP0Ig

— Jacob (@TexansJacob) June 25, 2025​

NFL running backs often see their careers measured in carries. As in, every back has a finite amount of runs in them before they’re put out to pasture.

Pierce has carried the ball 405 times in the regular season. He saw 220 in year 1, 145 in his sophomore campaign and only 40 last season.

Ogunbowale has only 166 in his 8 seasons in the league - not once topping 50 in a year.

Both players contribute on special teams as well:

#Texans RB Dare Ogunbowale with the go-ahead 29-yd field goal! pic.twitter.com/tU6dT9j3cr

— Kicker Update (@kickerupdate) November 5, 2023​

How many running backs kick go-ahead field goals? Against their former team no less.

If it were up to me, I’d keep ‘em both. Pierce has proven to be a game-breaker when put in the right situation. And, running backs are only as good as the offensive line they run behind. Will he ever be Joe Mixon 2.0? Probably not. But he still has a lot left in the tank and if Chubb breaks down, having Pierce is great insurance. Can Nick Calley and the new look o-line give him a path to success? Only time will tell.

There’s also a remote chance both players don’t make it past cut-downs and Texans’ general manager Nick Caserio brings in a different tailback altogether. But, it’s likely to come down to Pierce or Ogunbowale.

Who do you think Demeco Ryans keeps?

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...n-texans-rb3-dameon-pierce-or-dare-ogunbowale

 

[Houston Texans]

Houston Texans Draft Film Analysis: Jaylin Smith

Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images

Texans newest CB is a mixed bag of tenacity, agility, and fragility

If the Houston Texans are assembling the Avengers in their secondary, their newest addition packs the same punch and brings the same mentality to the team as the current cast. The small, hard-nosed defensive back played just about every position on USC’ secondary over his four seasons.

In today’s film review, we will analyze the 2024, but a further dive into his 2023 film will be necessary as that’s when he played the nickel role he’ll most likely return to.

Past Texans 2025 Draft Pick Film Reviews:

Jaylin Noel

Woody Marks

Kyonte Hamilton

Luke Lachey

Utilizes trail techniques to mirror the wide receiver. This works well against bigger receivers or tight ends, but when facing speed he lost leverage several times against Oregon.

Cornerback is my far and away least favorite position to review. The amount of nuance that occurs in their positioning, hand placement, leverage, coverage requirements, and is extremely difficult to

What we can control for is evaluating footwork, reaction time, tackling, getting burned, effort against the run, and stickiness on routes.

Fact of the matter is that Houston uses nickel personnel second most in the league and that predicates having multiple quality cornerbacks and safeties. Houston was at a loss without Jalen Pitre late in 2024 and they found a cheap and efficient option to

Jaylin Smith is a typical DeMeco Ryans style CB - athleticism and speed are secondary to mentality, vision, and tenacity. Smith won’t be asked to play Cover 1 and stick with a receiver downfield, instead he’ll start as a situational nickel/safety with impact on special teams. Keeping him closer to the line of scrimmage to emphasize his run support will accentuate not only his play style but the team’s scheme in 2025.

This was Smith’s high school scouting report... at least one high school scout got it right:

Undersized safety who has incredible instincts, toughness and is always around the ball. Has a corner frame and does cover well but is more comfortable playing safety where he see the field and react. Isn’t afraid to come up in run support and is a very sure tackler. Can break down and make plays in space and always plays hard with a lot of energy and emotion. Projects as a impact upper tier Power 5 starter and future mid round NFL draft pick.

Michigan Film:​

Sticks his nose in the running game and caps off the defensive gap responsibilities with vigor. His scrappiness at the point of contact is extremely raw; he’s swiping, yanking, pulling, and handsy. Honing in on his aggression at the catch point will pair enthusiasm with technique. This game was by far his highest grade of the season. His defense on the goal line on second and goal from the three saved a touchdown. Michigan provided quality tape of his run defense, but less on his coverage skills.

Notre Dame Film: HERE (Youtube won’t allow this embed)​

A competitive game against a broken USC team and a playoff-bound Notre Dame offered more film geared towards supporting the run. Smith was targeted in the pass game several times here. He mainly guarded tight ends and bigger receivers, as is his protocol. However, when matched up against a slot receiver he gave away 5+ yards of space on an out route.

Minnesota Film

The commentators credit him with playing a great game, but there weren’t many passes thrown his way. The stark difference in quality of play when in press vs off coverage is distinct. He is far better guarding at the line of scrimmage than reading a receiver and breaking on the route. His run game support is definitely a plus in this game too. In the fourth quarter (1:53:15) he gets called for an extremely suspect pass interference in the red zone. That pass interference weighed heavily on his PFF grade this game, which was his lowest of the season.

Strengths:​

• Plays the run with fantastic leverage and form
• Press coverage weaponizes his gritty play style
• Tenacity at catch point is evident when he is in the right place
• Most “SWARM” mentality player of draft class; fits defensive theme and tone
• Plays both sides of the field which is important in Houston’s defense

Weaknesses:​

• Ankle tackler in space which won't work in the NFL against bigger running backs
• Consistently injured throughout college
• Small frame limits ceiling to play outside corner or box safety
• Off coverage leaves a lot to be desired; appears to guess instead of anticipate
• Multiple instances of extremely poor effort tackling against Minnesota

The Fit in Houston: ​

Arguably no one has moved up the depth chart more this offseason than Smith as Jimmie Ward was arrested and Ronald Darby chose to retire. He will walk in as the bona-fide backup cornerback and can push Myles Bryant as the backup nickel corner behind Jalen Pitre.

His position versatility will make him a depth piece across the entire defense. He will be an immediate impact starter on special teams as a gunner. His ability to start at nickel will be the goal, but right now dime packages taking on WR4s and TE2 will be his role on the defense. Scheme-wise, he’s a great fit and depth piece for the Texans. I prefer him closer to the center of the field than out on the corners. The three games featured several instances of poor effort, which will not stand in a Texans defense.

Overall Analysis: ​

While third round feels like a reach, Jaylin Smith needs to refine his playing style and effort before making a considerable impact on this deep Texans defense. The litany of injuries doesn’t bode well for his long-term potential given his smaller frame. While the three games I watched didn’t provide a treasure trove of passes in a run-heavy Big 10, there’s enough consistency on tape to identify his skill.

What intrigues me the most is his development as it relates to the Texans evolution on defense. Don’t be surprised if Houston uses Smith as a third safety in dime packages later in the season. DeMeco knows that offenses now have two seasons of film on his Texans defense, and if they don’t evolve, opposing teams will pick them apart.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/6/26/24454283/houston-texans-draft-film-analysis-jaylin-smith

 

[Houston Texans]

Jayden Higgins Film Review: Houston Texans Draft Class

Reese Strickland-Imagn Images

Reviewing rookie Jayden Higgins senior year film

Few things are as unpredictable as a Houston Texans draft. The Texans came into the draft with seven pick and only stayed put for one of those selections. The first of those picks was Jayden Higgins the wide receiver from Iowa State.

He is the subject of our sixth film analysis of the rookie class. The second round wide receiver is slated to have an immediate impact on this offense desperately in need of a star alongside Nico Collins.

Higgins has been compered to Collins as well as Drake London due to his size, catch radius, and route running finesse. We’ll see just how far he stacks up.

Past Texans 2025 Draft Pick Film Reviews:

Jaylin Noel

Woody Marks

Kyonte Hamilton

Luke Lachey

Jaylin Smith

One of the godsends for this series has been Just the Tape’s YouTube channel that documents every target for several of the top receivers.

When you watch enough film, certain players habits will make you chuckle. Its the weaponized incompetencies of playing college football. I’ve never seen it before, but when the ball is in the air and he’s in the end zone facing tight coverage, he’ll jump in the air, kick his legs out, and let the ball come into his body. And it works. Ugly? It’s heinous, but the real question is whether the Texans will tweak it to improve his success against longer NFL corners or stick with what’s been effective.

One area of growth for Higgins is his body positioning on deep routes. In particular, he doesn’t consistently frame himself to put the corner in his pocket. This creates jump balls and slows him down if the ball has any air on it. Granted, Iowa State’s QB couldn’t throw the ball downfield with any zip, but it occurred in every game I watched and causes incompletions that could have been 30-40 yard gains.

An under-appreciated trait is he’s willing to run routes over the middle of the field but knows how to orient his body to avoid big hits. He runs at full speed with shoulders turned towards QB, which opens up the window the QB can throw to without losing the timing of the throw. His ability to run over the middle of the field creates a great combination as he can make his living over the middle in an offense with Chrisitan Kirk and Nico Collins who can live on the boundaries.

Although, while he ran a 4.47 40 yard dash at the NFL Combine, that speed doesn’t exude himself on the field. Particularly when he’s running in-braking routes,

Jacob Parrish from K State is an underrated corner in this draft. He can play inside and outside and only gave up 3 catches on 8 targets against Iowa State.

A few clips vs. Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins pic.twitter.com/NkpxQ1CJp7

— Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) April 10, 2025​

One of the film studies I was most intrigued with was his play against scrappy corner Jacob Parrish. Parish is only 5-10, but is an extremely physical corner who ran a 4.35 forty yard dash.

Higgins’ big touchdown (9:00) wasn’t against Parrish. Parrish did a good job disrupting Higgins’ routes before he could get into them all game and help hold Higgins to his lowest yardage all season. Higgins did cook Parrish at 1:16:05 but couldn’t haul in a rushed pass. One issue I noticed is when he works up the field and establishes outside leverage, he continues to fade towards the sideline, which tightens the window for the QB to throw to. At the 35:40 mark, you’ll see Higgins outright embarrass his defender off the line of scrimmage, but allow him back into the play to disrupt the touchdown due to his running angle downfield. Correcting this will capitalize on his speed and ability to win off the snap.

His routes feel more polished than WRs that went early in round two last year. While last class had more quality receivers, Higgins release package and frame surpass players such as Keon Coleman, Xavier Legette, and Ja’Lynn Polk.

Strengths:​

• NFL-level release package
• Great catch radius – consistently catches ball outside frame
• Average depth of target is 13.3 yards – catches ball well down field
• Only seven drops on 350 targets
• Dominant in win over rival Iowa with eight catches and a touchdown

Weaknesses:​

• Due to height, not great at curl, breaking, and out routes. Anything where his momentum has to be completely stopped and he has to turn towards the sideline
• Low YAC. Not agile with ball in his hands nor creative
• Opposition facing Iowa State wasn’t always first class
• Contested catch is impressive but form may not work in NFL

Fit in Houston: ​

As a young wide receiver, Higgins has the tools to become a high-end WR2 in the league. He pairs well with the current cast and has flexibility to play anywhere on the field. While other analysts compare him to Nico Collins or Drake London, he reminds me of a lesser Tee Higgins. The route nuance, top-end speed, and catch radius are all three characteristics of an NFL receiver. If he can improve getting in and out of his breaks with his tall frame he will accelerate his growth considerably.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/2025/...iggins-film-review-houston-texans-draft-class