The Houston Texans showed plenty of promise early in the season, largely thanks to the instant success of rookie quarterback Deshaun Watson. After he went down for the season, it was clear there is still work to be done with the team. The Houston Texans need some work and need to fill gaping holes but these problems can be solved with the right additions. Evaluating team needs and who’s available, there are many ways to approach the offseason, so let’s take a look.
Cutting Season
The Texans already made the right first move of the offseason by cutting linebacker Brian Cushing. Cutting Cushing was a move that was long overdue but better late than never. They also look at cutting cornerback Kareem Jackson. Jackson just hasn’t been good, point blank period. He is horrible in coverage and has been since he was drafted and he is part of the reason the secondary was so bad last season. Guard Jeff Allen also needs to go. He hasn’t been an outright bust but hasn’t lived up to expectations either. Despite this, it’s likely he gets his last chance with Houston next season.
Who to re-sign
In terms of who the team should bring back, the number of returners is limited. Houston should look at bringing back safety Eddie Pleasant. He’s a good enough safety for roster depth and has improved every year. The Texans signed running back Andre Ellington towards the end of the season and he should be brought back. He’s experienced and never got a shot to really showcase his talents. Plus, he would be a nice target for Deshaun Watson. Ellington’s cousin, WR Bruce Ellington, should be brought back as well. When Watson was on the field, B. Ellington was able to make things happen for his quarterback. He extends the field and can play the slot as well so he is a must re-sign.
Center Greg Mancz played well for the Texans when needed and can be brought back. Bringing back LG Xavier Su’a-Filo is not a must, but if the team has no other choice, Su’a-Filo will have to be brought back.
What To Do With Joseph?
Corner Jonathan Joseph is a free agent as well and while he has had success with this team and has been their best cornerback for the past seven years, I think it is time to move on. Joseph is on the other side of 30 and will continue to regress. The secondary needs to be revamped and needs youth and athleticism.
Free Agency
The free agents the Texans should be targeting are cornerback Trumaine Johnson, tight end Jimmy Graham, cornerback Malcolm Butler, safety Eric Reid, guard Andrew Norwell and cornerback Prince Amukamara. If the Texans were able to sign at least two of these players, the offseason would be a huge success.
The Texans have many holes to fill to be contenders and not all of those will be addressed this offseason but it does present a good opportunity for the Texans to begin building around Watson on a good note.