What Happened to Houston Texans?

The Houston Texans, an NFL expansion team established in 2002, have undergone a significant transformation in recent years, particularly since the arrival of Head Coach DeMeco Ryans and quarterback C.J. Stroud. After a period of struggles, including an 11-38-1 stretch from 2020-2022, the franchise began a rapid ascent.

DeMeco Ryans, a former Texans linebacker, was hired as head coach on January 31, 2023, and quickly revitalized the team. In his first three seasons (2023-2025), Ryans led the Texans to three consecutive playoff appearances and two AFC South division titles, achieving at least 10 wins in each of those seasons. This period marked the most successful on-field stretch in franchise history. Quarterback C.J. Stroud, drafted second overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, was instrumental in this turnaround, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023 and leading the team to a division title and a playoff victory in his debut season.

The 2025 season saw the Texans achieve a 12-5 record, winning the AFC South and securing a Wild Card victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, their playoff journey ended in the Divisional Round with a 28-16 loss to the New England Patriots. This continued a franchise trend, as the Texans hold an all-time 0-7 record in Divisional Round games and have never reached an AFC Championship game. The 2025 season was notable for the defense setting multiple franchise records, including fewest yards and points allowed per game, and highest turnover differential. Conversely, the offense, particularly the run game, struggled, finishing 29th in the NFL with 3.9 yards per attempt, and C.J. Stroud committed 7 turnovers in two playoff games.

Off the field, D. Cal McNair was approved as the principal owner of the Houston Texans in March 2024, taking over from his mother, Janice McNair. The team also unveiled new uniforms in April 2024, the first change since their inception, and announced plans for a transformative new sports and entertainment development called 'Toro District' in February 2026.

As of August 13, 2026, the Texans are preparing for their 25th NFL season. The coaching staff for 2026, including retained offensive coordinator Nick Caley and defensive coordinator Matt Burke, was announced in March. C.J. Stroud's fifth-year option was exercised in April 2026, and he is entering what is being described as a 'make-or-break' contract year, with a strong emphasis from Coach Ryans on improving offensive consistency and physicality. The team also made offseason moves, including acquiring running back David Montgomery, and will play a Week 6 international game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. Training camp in August 2026 has seen intense competition and a focus on refining the offense to complement their elite defense, with the goal of finally breaking through the Divisional Round barrier and competing for a Super Bowl.