The Texans’ offense was not strong enough for the playoffs compared to their solid defense this season.
With the team ranking 22nd in total yards and 19th in scoring, the offense struggled throughout 2024. CJ Stroud’s inconsistent performances made things worse, creating problems for the team.
While some blamed offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, Stroud publicly supported him, saying, “I’m definitely on Bobby’s side,” during his final press conference of the season.
This made it seem like Slowik had Stroud’s backing. However, head coach DeMeco Ryans had a different opinion and decided to fire the offensive coordinator.
As fans in Houston were still trying to process these changes, even more bad news came their way, adding to their frustration.
The NFL fined running back Joe Mixon $25,000 for a comment he didn’t even make. The league mistakenly quoted former Bengals receiver, TJ Houshmandzadeh’s comment as if it were Mixon’s. This led to a lot of backlash.
The situation worsened after the Texans lost to the Chiefs in the divisional round, with a score of 14-23. The league also fined cornerback Kris Boyd $8,056 for Unsportsmanlike Conduct, which happened when he removed his helmet.
Boyd had started the game with a lot of energy. After Texans kicker Kaʻimi Fairbairn made a 60-yard kickoff to start the game, receiver Nikko Remigio rushed the ball back.
Boyd tackled him at the 32-yard line. After the play, Boyd ran toward special teams coordinator Frank Ross, who was trying to calm him down.
The referees threw a flag, giving the Chiefs a 13-yard gain. Boyd later explained the situation in an Instagram story, saying he was just excited and didn’t realize the penalty was coming. He also apologized for his mistake.
C.J. Stroud stands on the field after the lossHowever, the damage was done. The Chiefs scored a field goal on their first drive and went on to win the game.
After the playoff loss, the Texans are focusing on rebuilding during the offseason. Despite the rough ending, there is still some good news for the team.
CJ Stroud’s teammate, defensive lineman Danielle Hunter, was selected to the Pro Bowl. The Texans were proud when four of their players—Joe Mixon, Nico Collins, Laremy Tunsil, and Derek Stingley Jr.—were named to the AFC Pro Bowl.
After the season, Danielle Hunter joined them as a Pro Bowl selection for the 5th time in his career.
Hunter was second in the league with 90 quarterback pressures during the 2024 season, according to NextGenStats. That’s a big accomplishment.
While the Texans would love to make a run for the Super Bowl, their fans are hoping for their first Lombardi Trophy.
Hunter was signed by the Texans in March of last year with a two-year, $49 million contract after being acquired from the Vikings.
He started all 17 regular games, recording 46 tackles (31 solo, 17 for loss), 23 QB hits, 12 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 3 passes defended. Hunter even set a franchise record in week 12 against the Titans with 3 sacks in the first half.
