The Houston Texans have taken decisive action in response to a lackluster offensive performance over the past two seasons, reflecting a growing impatience within the organization. With the firing of offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, a new chapter is set to begin for the struggling franchise. Alongside Slowik, the Texans’ offensive line coach Chris Strausser and assistant offensive line coach Cole Popovich have also been let go, hinting at a broader overhaul of the offensive staff. This shake-up comes on the heels of a promising 2024 season in which the Texans won the AFC South at 10-7 and advanced to the divisional round for the second consecutive year. However, the glaring deficiencies in their offensive strategy could no longer be ignored.
Despite the Texans’ successes on paper, including a playoff appearance, the offensive output revealed troubling issues. Head coach DeMeco Ryans expressed a need for reflection and an overhaul shortly after the end of the season. While he acknowledged a degree of growth from Slowik, his lack of a strong endorsement signaled that leadership changes were imminent. Ryans stated, “There were challenges throughout the year…we have to improve.” These but a few words made it clear that the status quo was unacceptable.
Delving deeper into the Texans’ offensive performance paints an unsettling picture. Ranking 18th in scoring with an average of just 22.1 points per game and 16th in total offense with 329 yards per game, the statistics reflect a unit that failed to reach its potential, particularly in tight situations. What stands out most is the protection afforded to quarterback C.J. Stroud. With 52 sacks endured—ranking as the second most in the league—it is easy to see why Stroud’s progression from his impressive rookie campaign stalled. He was pressured on an alarming 38.6% of his dropbacks, one of the highest rates in the league.
The offensive line’s shortcomings were exacerbated by their struggle against defensive schemes involving twists and stunts. Favorable performances were undermined by unblocked pressures—52 in total—given up during the season, highlighting a failure to adapt or execute basic concepts. Stroud’s statistical decline was inevitable, as he managed 3,727 passing yards and 20 touchdowns in 2024, well below his 4,108 yards and 23 touchdowns from his rookie year. The presence of elite players such as Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil and running back Joe Mixon only underscored the underperformance of the unit as a whole.
Another remarkable aspect of the Texans’ 2024 season was their inability to score points consistently, particularly in the second halves of games. Averaging a league-low 7.5 points in this critical phase, it was clear that the offense often faltered when it mattered most. From Week 7 to Week 12, the Texans went on a shocking drought without scoring a single offensive touchdown, a stretch that revealed deep-rooted issues in playcalling and execution.
Significant expectations surrounded the offense heading into 2024, bolstered by high-profile acquisitions like wide receiver Stefon Diggs. However, an unfortunate knee injury sidelined Diggs in Week 8, robbing the team of a vital offensive weapon. Although Mixon managed to rush for over 1,000 yards, the offense remained beleaguered and challenged, struggling to convert on crucial third downs and failing to capitalize in the red zone, finishing 28th in scoring efficiency at 48.4%.
The recent coaching changes signal a wider intent to revitalize the Texans’ offensive identity. With Ryans and the organization intent on bringing in fresh offensive leadership, the focus will shift to equipping the team with a more robust and effective system. As they prepare for the upcoming season, the Texans must leverage the talent they have on their roster while addressing the critical shortcomings that plagued their offense. The path forward requires not just new leadership, but also renewed commitment and adaptation.
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