Between now and the end of August, TGS will offer up a quick snapshot of every NFL team heading into the 2016 regular season. Today, the Houston Texans.
2015 in a nutshell: They once again waste a dominant season from J.J. Watt, making the playoffs despite inconsistent and unreliable quarterback play but failing to win in January. In fact, they’re embarrassed at home in the wild-card playoffs, losing 30-0 to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Why 2016 could be different: They gave a jillion dollars to supposed franchise-quarterback-in-the-making Brock Osweiler, but Watt is rehabbing from back surgery and could miss the start of the season.
Major additions: Osweiler, as well as first- and second-round rookies Will Fuller and Nick Martin, whom are expected to start at wide receiver and center. They also added guard Jeff Allen and running back Lamar Miller in free agency.
Major losses: Key 2015 contributors Quintin Demps, Nate Washington, Ben Jones and Brandon Brooks have all moved on.
Breakout watch: Osweiler, who has just seven career starts under his belt, is an obvious candidate. But they’re also of course looking for top 2014 pick Jadeveon Clowney to finally arrive up front on defense.
Position to watch: There’s a lot up in the air here with Osweiler arriving and Watt in jeopardy of missing time, but the offensive line has a lot of pressure on it. Stalwart left tackle Duane Brown is trying to get back from quad surgery, while Martin and Allen try to replace Jones and Brooks.
Prediction: The Colts and Jaguars will be better, and there are just too many question marks with Watt and Brown hurting and Osweiler debuting as a Week 1 starter. I’ll give them an 8-8 record.
