The Houston Texans are at a critical point as they prepare for a vital offseason. They want to improve their roster for the upcoming 2024 NFL season. Following a 10-7 record in 2023, which earned them a playoff berth, the Texans are evaluating strategic player additions and future squad changes. As they consider their options, three players have emerged as possible candidates for release. Each of these has distinct consequences for the team’s future direction. Here, we look at the Texans’ 2023 season, the consequences of their playoff absence, and potential release candidates to help them perform better next season.
Texans’ 2023 season
During the 2023 season, the Houston Texans pulled off one of the most surprising turnarounds in NFL history. A team that had only three wins the previous year finished the season with ten. They won a division title and the franchise’s first postseason participation since 2019. A spectacular victory in the Wild Card Round cemented Houston’s position as a legitimate threat in the AFC.
The team’s turnaround highlighted DeMeco Ryans’ astute coaching and quarterback CJ Stroud’s outstanding rookie play. Positioned as a formidable challenger in the AFC South, the Texans appear to be on track for continued competitiveness and championship contention in the near future.
While Ryans and general manager Nick Caserio have a solid base, expanding and polishing the roster will need continuous efforts. As the Texans’ playoff run came to an end with a 34-10 loss to the Baltimore Ravens in the Divisional Round, attention turned to the team’s offseason plans.
Offseason Considerations:
The Texans, bolstered by a young and talented core, have hurdles in negotiating veteran contracts. Right now, Robert Woods stands out as a viable cap-saving alternative that might potentially open up opportunities for young receivers. We’ll have more about him eventually.
Furthermore, with Case Keenum in the mix, the decision over Davis Mills’ future becomes critical. Mills, who is 25 years old and has made 26 starts, might attract interest as a backup quarterback with significant upside. Following Devin Singletary’s impressive campaign and Pierce’s disappointing sophomore season, Dameon Pierce’s role could be jeopardized as well.
Here, we’ll look at the three cut possibilities on the Houston Texans’ roster heading into the 2024 NFL offseason.
Davis Mills, quarterback
Yes, Davis Mills is not expected to be a traditional cap casualty given the Texans’ limited options. However, the organization may consider parting ways with him to pursue other options. Despite probable trade interest, the Texans’ decision to start Keenum over Mills in Weeks 14 and 15 signals Mills will play a smaller role. This move might result in a $1.4 million savings for the team.
Robert Woods, WR
As previously stated, Robert Woods emerges as a key character in conversations about the Texans’ financial situation. Sure, the squad is in a favourable position, with only one player expected to earn more than $20 million (Laremy Tunsil). However, Woods is 32 years old and has produced modestly. He finished fourth on the squad in receiving yards (426) and scored only one touchdown. These may cause the Texans to reconsider reallocating resources. With budding players like Nico Collins and Tank Dell, releasing Woods may free up $4.9 million in salary room to sign a more productive third receiver.
Jimmie Ward (S)
Jimmie Ward’s time with the Texans shows a planned acquisition intended at strengthening the team’s defence. Ward has been a steady veteran under DeMeco Ryans, and his versatility, particularly in slot coverage, has been useful. Ward’s future with the Texans, however, remains questionable as he approaches 33 years old and is sidelined by injuries. The decision to part ways with Ward might save the franchise $3.8 million in total. They could then consider allocating resources to improve the safety position.
Looking ahead.
As the Houston Texans consider roster changes ahead of the 2024 NFL season, the decisions involving Davis Mills, Robert Woods, and Jimmie Ward highlight the challenges of operating an NFL organization. Each athlete brings a unique combination of experience, potential, and financial considerations. Given this, the Texans must strike a balance between short-term requirements and long-term goals. The impending offseason presents an opportunity for the organization to realign its priorities. They will use available resources to increase competitiveness and design a course for long-term success.
We fully anticipate the Texans to make strategic player acquisitions, prudent roster moves, and develop young talent. That way, the Texans can continue to manage the changing world of professional football while emerging as a formidable force in the AFC. As the offseason progresses, decisions made by the franchise will undoubtedly determine the team’s destiny for years to come. It would establish the groundwork for future championship dreams and sustained success.
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