Houston Texans Preview 2021

NFLNFL Preview 2021AFC Preview 2021AFC South Preview 2021AFCAFC SouthHouston Texans

Sep 3

Our Houston Texans preview 2021 notes that last season this team took a mighty fall. In 2018 and 2019, Houston won 11 games each year, finishing atop the AFC South. Last season, the Texans went 4-11 overall and 2-4 within the division. Consequently, they finished third in the AFC South and out of the playoffs. The offseason was filled with controversy, as coach and GM Bill O’Brien was let go, J.J. Watt requested his release and is now with Arizona, and QB Deshaun Watson became determined to be traded or sit out the season. Thus, we expect the 2021 edition of the Houston Texans to struggle to get to .500.

Texans Offense

We anticipate either veteran journeyman Tyrod Taylor or rookie and former Stanford starter Davis Mills to start at QB. Either way, without Watson, who along with the trade request is facing 22 civil lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct, this is a unit in distress. WR Brandin Cooks (81 REC, 1,150 YDs, 14.2 AVG, 6 TDs) is the team’s top pass catcher. However, with Will Fuller and Randall Cobb gone, this is a thin group. Additionally, RB David Johnson (147 ATT, 691 YDs, 4.7 AVG, 6 TDs) heads what is an understaffed ground attack. The O-line has talent and may be the best unit on this side of the ball. Although last season the Texans were fourth in passing, they were 31st in rushing, tied for 29th in sacks allowed, and tied for 18th in points.

Houston Texans Preview – Defense

In 2020, the Texans were 30th in total defense (416.8 YDs), 32nd in rush defense (160.3 YDs), and 27th in points allowed (29 PPG). Our Houston Texans preview 2021 notes that the loss of J.J. Watt will have a major effect on the D-line. Consequently, this unit has been downgraded. However, if end Charles Omenihu (4 SCKs), a third-year player, can have a breakout season that will help. Houston shifts to a 4-3 front, which means middle linebacker Zach Cunningham, who led the league with 163 tackles, will be the lynchpin on D. It’s hoped that OLB Christian Kirksey can stay healthy and step up as a leader. In the secondary, the corners are sound. Terrance Mitchell parlayed a fine 2020 season with the Browns into a $7.5 million, two-year deal with the Texans. Cornerback Bradley Roby is their top man but has had issues with PEDs.

Houston Texans Special Teams

The special teams are solid. Placekicker Kai’mi Fairbairn (37/40 XPs, 27/31 FGs) offers good range and accuracy. Punter Cameron Johnston, who’s averaged 47 YPP over the past three seasons, can expertly boom and place the ball. Also, his hangtime is first class. Free agent Andre Roberts joins the team and should put some pizzazz in the return game. Long snapper Jon Weeks is a reliable vet.