At the NFL Combine, Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans emphasized the need to improve pass protection and wide receiver depth this offseason. Both areas struggled in 2024, impacting quarterback C.J. Stroud’s performance in his second year.
Pass Protection Woes
Houston’s offensive line allowed 52 sacks, the second-most in the NFL, and Stroud faced pressure on 38.6% of his dropbacks, according to Next Gen Stats. The offense finished 18th in scoring (22 points per game), leading Ryans to replace offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik with Nick Caley from the Rams.
Ryans stressed the importance of protecting Stroud, saying, “Getting better protection for QB C.J. Stroud is definitely a main point of emphasis for us.” We know when C.J. is protected — he has a clean pocket — he’s a pretty good quarterback.”
Stroud’s numbers declined in 2024, finishing with 3,727 passing yards (15th in the league) and 20 touchdowns (tied for 15th) after throwing for 4,108 yards and 23 touchdowns as a rookie in two fewer games. His struggles were most evident in Houston’s divisional-round loss to Kansas City, where he was sacked eight times and pressured on 56% of his dropbacks—the second-highest rate in a playoff game since 2009.
Injuries Limited Stroud’s Receiving Options
Houston’s receiving corps, expected to be a strength, dealt with injuries throughout the season. Nico Collins missed significant time with a hamstring injury, Stefon Diggs tore his ACL in Week 8, and Tank Dell dislocated his knee in Week 16.
By the playoffs, Stroud had only Collins as a reliable option. Collins exploded for 122 yards and a touchdown in the wild-card win over the Chargers, but Kansas City’s defense adjusted, limiting him to 81 yards on five catches in the divisional round.
Texans Face Key Decision with Stefon Diggs
Diggs’ future is one of the Texans’ biggest offseason questions. At the time of his injury, he ranked seventh in the NFL in catches (47) and second on the Texans in receiving yards (496). When targeting Diggs, Stroud completed 73% of his passes and posted a 104 passer rating.
Texans general manager Nick Caserio acknowledged Diggs’ value and left the door open for a return, saying, “Stef is rehabbing.” He’s going to be a free agent. We’re going to have discussions with all our free agents. Stef did a lot of good things for our team. We’re open to bringing him back.”
Diggs made $22.52 million in 2024, but sources say Houston would only re-sign him on a team-friendly deal.
Cap Space and Roster Moves
With the NFL’s salary cap increasing to $279.2 million, Houston currently has $6.3 million in cap space, ranking 26th in the league, per Roster Management System. Caserio said the team is open to releasing, restructuring, or extending contracts to create flexibility.
One way to clear space is restructuring or extending key players. Left tackle Laremy Tunsil carries a $28.5 million cap hit, the highest on the team, while defensive end Danielle Hunter has the second-highest at $23.7 million. Adjusting either contract could free up significant cap room to improve the offensive line and receiving corps.
Texans’ Path Forward
With limited cap space, Houston will have to be strategic in free agency but could also explore trades and the NFL Draft for upgrades. After winning the AFC South and making a playoff run, the Texans believe they are close to being a contender. Upgrading Stroud’s protection and weapons will be the key to taking the next step.
