Three-time consecutive playoff team (12-5 in 2025) that lost again in the Divisional Round, this time to New England 28-16. C.J.
| Round 1 | #28 |
| Round 2 | #38 (from Commanders), #59 |
| Round 3 | #69 (from Giants) |
| Round 4 | #106 (from Commanders) |
| Round 5 | #167 |
| Round 7 | #243 (from 49ers) |
Traded 4th-round pick (#128) + Juice Scruggs + 2027 7th to DET for RB David Montgomery. Traded Tytus Howard to CLE for 5th-round pick (#167). Own two 2nd-rounders (#38 via WAS from Tunsil trade, #59 own) and an extra 3rd (#69 via NYG). No 6th-round pick.
Critical Needs
The offensive line interior remains the Texans' most glaring need.
The Texans lost DT Tim Settle Jr.
Depth Needs
Nico Collins is the clear WR1 (1,117 yards, Pro Bowler) but has missed time each of the last three seasons.
Will Anderson Jr.
Azeez Al-Shaair (Pro Bowler, entering contract year) and Henry To'oto'o are the starting duo.
Minor Needs
Dalton Schultz was extended (1yr/$12.6M) and posted a career-high 82 catches in 2025, but he turns 30 this season and is on a one-year deal.
Derek Stingley Jr.
- Re-signed G Ed Ingram (3yr/$37.5M) — solidifies one guard spot, but LG and C still need upgrades
- Signed OT Braden Smith (2yr/$25M from IND) — fills RT, but is a short-term answer
- Extended OT Trent Brown (1yr/$7M) — swing tackle depth, injury-prone at 32
- Traded for RB David Montgomery (from DET for Juice Scruggs + 4th + 7th) — replaces released Joe Mixon, RB no longer a top need
- Released RB Joe Mixon (missed entire 2025 season with foot injury) — cleared $8M cap space
DeMeco Ryans runs an aggressive 4-3 defense with the 'SWARM' identity, emphasizing speed, physicality, and turnovers. Full scheme analysis →
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