It’s a franchise that has fallen fast after a respectable run. The Houston Texans still have some salary cap room and may be busy sooner than later.
From 2011-19, a span of nine seasons, the Houston Texans epitomized hit or miss. They finished with seven winning campaigns, six of those resulting in AFC South titles. There was a 9-7 showing in 2014 but last-place finishes in 2013 and ’17.
Seven times in nine years the franchise won at least nine games. That’s obviously a distant memory when it comes to the current state of the team. All told, the Texans are a combined 8-25 the past two seasons.
The organization made headlines this offseason in dealing quarterback Deshaun Watson to the Cleveland Browns and getting plenty in return. This past season, quarterback Davis Mills showed promise as a rookie. And last year’s defensive coordinator, Lovie Smith, is now the team’s newest head coach.
Over the last few weeks, general manager Nick Caserio has picked up some intriguing players that could contribute immediately.
Running back Marlon Mack comes over from the rival Indianapolis Colts and can be an every-down performer. Veteran cornerback Steven Nelson should help improve the league’s 23rd-ranked pass defense.
Still, the Houston Texans have some money to spend (via Spotrac) and there are still some intriguing names out there. Could this franchise still be a player in free agency leading up to and shortly after April’s draft? Here are five veterans who could help Houston solve some of its problems.
5. S Landon Collins (Released by Washington Commanders)
Reliable safety Justin Reid was a solid player for the Texans for four years. But this offseason, the talented defender inked a three-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Seven-year pro Landon Collins left the New York Giants in 2019 and signed with Washington. He spent the past three seasons in D.C. and had his ups and downs and was released by the club this offseason.
He bounced back from an injury-plagued 2020 to play and start 13 games this past season. He finished with 51 tackles, three sacks, and four takeaways.