Expectations for the Houston Texans in 2026

As the 2026 NFL regular season approaches, expectations for the Houston Texans center on whether the team can make the next step into deeper playoff contention. With C.J. Stroud as starting quarterback, Houston has reached the playoffs every season and won at least one postseason game each year. The article points to offensive issues last season, especially play-calling in critical moments, and argues the unit must produce more effectively even with ideal calls. General manager Nick Caserio is credited for targeting the offense this offseason by upgrading the offensive line with at least three new starters and adding veteran running back David Montgomery. It also cites second-round tight end Marlin Klein as depth behind Dalton Schultz. Defensively, the Texans finished last season as the best in the league and added safety Reed Blankenship and defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, positioning Houston to contend for the AFC.