Don’t worry. Be happy.
That was the key line in a song a couple decades ago that many listeners took literally. In 2026, the Houston Texans appear to have taken it literally.
DeMeco Ryans’ Texans were among the handful of teams that opened this season with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations. They came into the season with a defense that ranked near the top in all categories last season and was expected to be as good this year. Their quarterback, C.J. Stroud, had a fantastic rookie season in 2023 leading the Texans from last place the year before to the division title. He also led the Texans to a postseason opening win over the Cleveland Browns.
Big things were expected from the Texans in 2024, and while their defense continued to stuff opponents offenses, Stroud had a sophomore slump at quarterback. Still, anchored by their stop unit, the Texans again won the AFC South Division with ten wins and opened the postseason with a victory over the favored Los Angeles Chargers.
Last year, it was hoped Stroud would return to his rookie year form and the Texans could advance beyond the second week of postseason play. Instead, still with a solid stop unit, a weak offensive line didn’t open holes for Houston runners and Stroud’s passing game was limited while he faced consistent pressure.
Okay, they still made the playoffs. Still won an open postseason game, and as the season went on developed a sturdier front five. So, this would be their year to put it all together. Big things were expected from Stroud in his fourth pro campaign and with that great defense the Texans could be in the running to win it all come January.