What's New?
The Houston Texans are going into their second year under Gary Kubiak’s offensive system, but two of the key guys, quarterback Matt Schaub and running back Ahman Green, are both newcomers and will be on a steeper learning curve. Schaub is an untested talent who many feel has the potential to be a franchise quarterback. I’m not quite so convinced, and I certainly wouldn’t look for greatness in his first season as a starter.
Green is on the other end of the NFL spectrum in that he is on the downside of his career. He’s certainly not going to make Texans fans forget about passing on Reggie Bush, but he should add some consistency to the position.
With the Texans’ history of bad offensive line play, it’s a bit surprising that only one noteworthy addition was made to the squad in former Chiefs tackle Jordan Black. The group, though, showed marked improvement down the stretch last year, and the hope is that a better understanding of zone blocking will continue their growth as a unit.
The team also threw another first-round draft pick at the defensive line; this time selecting Louisville tackle Amobi Okoye, who they hope will get a consistent inside push to help free up last year’s No. 1 overall pick Mario Williams.
NFL Draft Picks
1st Round - Amobi Okoye, DT Louisville
3rd Round - Jacoby Jones, WR Lane
4th Round - Fred Bennett, CB South Carolina
5th Round - Brandon Harrison, S Stanford
5th Round - Brandon Frye, OT Virginia Tech
6th Round - Kasey Studdard, OG Texas
7th Round - Zach Diles, LB Kansas State
Who's Gone?
Closing the first chapter of the Texans less-than-mediocre existence, quarterback David Carr was finally cut loose following five disappointing seasons since being selected No. 1 overall in the 2002 NFL Draft. Also gone is running back Dominick (Davis) Williams, who showed the potential to be a feature back, but was hampered by injuries the past couple seasons.
Starting safety Glenn Earl is still on the team, but has already been lost for the season, which really disrupts the Texans defensive secondary, and gives them little time to find a viable replacement.
What Needs to Change?
Consistency in the running game will be key in taking some of the pressure off the inexperienced Schaub. Green, even having lost a step, is an upgrade and should provide some veteran savvy, especially in areas like pass protection and leadership skills
Of even more importance, perhaps, is finding a way to generate a more potent pass rush. Since the coaching staff prefers to rush only the front four, they are depending on the growth of Williams at defensive end, and the added presence of Okoye in the middle to make life uncomfortable for opposing quarterbacks. Justin Babin led the team with just five sacks in 2006, and Anthony Weaver has recorded just three over the last two seasons. That type of production again this year will keep the team at the bottom of the division, because they didn’t do a whole lot to improve their secondary.
If they hope to compete in what should be a very strong division, the Texans also really need someone to step up as the No. 2 receiver opposite Andre Johnson. Kevin Walter seems to have the inside track for that position, and the coaching staff really likes him. He has great hands and good speed, but has made little impact over his first four years in the league. The 37-year-old Keenan McCardell will get some looks as well.
Under Pressure to Perform
Matt Schaub - There are very high expectations for a guy who has started just two games during his NFL career. He shows promise, but there’s no guarantee he will flourish as the starter.
Mario Williams - With a year under his belt, Williams will be expected to emerge as a playmaker this season, especially if Reggie Bush and Vince Young continue to play well in other cities. If he doesn’t record double-digit sacks this year, fans will really start to question his selection with the top pick in 2006.
2006 Rankings
Overall Offense - 28th (279.1)
Rushing Offense - 21st (105.4)
Passing Offense - 27th (173.6)
Overall Defense - 24th (337.5)
Rushing Defense - 20th (122.3)
Passing Defense - 22nd (215.3)
Prediction - The offensive line, long a soft spot for the Texans, appeared to be coming around somewhat at the end of the 2006 season, and should continue to do so. I’m more concerned with the lack of pass rush and the shape of the defensive secondary. The Texans seem to be putting the pieces together, but are still a few pieces away, in my view, from competing in a very tough division.
Record:6-10 and last in the AFC South
