Getting the QB Right & Healthy

The Houston Texans have made winning without a franchise quarterback a yearly occurrence in recent years.  From 2014 to 2016, the Texans posted three straight 9-7 seasons while reaching the playoffs two different times.  Their leading passers for those seasons: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Brian Hoyer and Brock Osweiler.  Cue the Deshaun Watson era.

Watson made six starts in 2017 before missing the rest of the reason due to an ACL tear.  But during those six starts, Watson turned the Texans offense into can't miss TV.  Watson completed over 60% of his passes for 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions.  His 103.0 QB rating demonstrated a young quarterback who appears ready to make an instant impact on the league.  Without Watson as the starter, the Texans would go on to lose nine of their final 10 games.

The goal for the Texans will be to get their star players healthy and productive for 2018.  As much as Watson can be that difference maker for the offense, getting All Pro defensive end JJ Watt back onto the field is a priority for the team's defense.  Watt has now played in just eight games over the past two seasons due to injury.  When healthy, Watt is a constant competitor for the league's best defensive player.

The Texans will need to use their ample cap space in order to improve in free agency this offseason.  The acquisition of Deshaun Watson in last year's draft has left the Texans without a first round pick.  The trade of Brock Osweiler to Cleveland left the Texans without a second round pick.  So the team will have to add to the roster by landing key free agents.

The future of the Texans offense now appears to be set.  If the team can maintain weapons around Watson while also keeping him healthy, they will regularly compete for the playoffs in the AFC.

Offensive Ranking: 20th

Defensive Ranking: 20th

Key Free Agents:  

Marcus Gilchrist - SS - The veteran safety has been a dependable though not spectacular over his career.  At 29 years old, should be looking at another short term deal to be a veteran starter for a needy team.

Shane Lechler - P - Had his best season in terms of punting average since 2011.  Continues to punt at a high level.  Lechler isn't going anywhere.  It's simply a matter of how long he wants to play for.  Will be 42 years old come 2018 training camp.

Jonathan Joseph - CB - The veteran cornerback intercepted two passes in 2017 while starting all 16 games.  Joseph will turn 34 before training camp, but should be able to land a deal as quality cornerback who can still start in the league or provide depth to a competing roster.

Potential Cuts/Restructures:  

Brian Cushing - LB - Another performance enhancing drug suspension for Cushing cost him 10 games in 2017.  After now two PED related suspensions, Cushing's declining production adds to the lack of trust the organization can place in him.  Cap savings: $7.6M