Tag: 2024 Houston Texans

Who are the Texans starting nickel defender options entering 2024?

Houston Texans second round pick Kamari Lassiter has been the star of minicamp, and his rising star as an outside corner leaves the question of who will play the nickel spot?

It’s June, and full pads have yet to enter the mix, but former Georgia star Kamari Lassiter has been the Houston Texans’ mandatory minicamp star.

Many anticipated the second-round pick would play shift inside based on his 4.6 second 40-time at UGA’s Pro Day, but he’s been wowing media and coaches working on the outside. 

There’s still a possibility that Lassier slides into the nickel spot once training camp begins next month, but if he continues to impress, he’ll stay a fixture opposite of Derek Stingley Jr. Even after signing several free agents, Houston coach DeMeco Ryans is a practicer of the “right man for the job” method.

If Lassiter fits the mold outside, what are the Texans’ options in the slot?

Desmond King seems to be the most logical option entering camp. After being waived before the start of the season, he returned to Houston and started five games, including two in the postseason.

Among eligible nickel corners, King ranked 12th in passer rating when targeted at 89.8, according to Pro Football Focus. He also served as a necessary element in the Texans’ return game.

 

Just because King started doesn’t mean he was the elite. Teams went after King, averaging 5.4 snaps per target and 6.3 per reception, the latter of which was the worst in the league.

And King, who turns 30 this December, might not be viewed as a long-term option near the line of scrimmage. A position switch to safety could be in the works should he make the final 53-man squad.

Myles Bryant was an under-the-radar free agent signing after a four-year stay in New England. Texans general manager Nick Caserio quickly signed him while working in the Patriots’ front office and did the same once Bryant became a free agent.

Even though New England elected not to re-sign the 26-year-old, Bryant found a way to make the active roster as an undrafted free agent out of Washington. And no, this wasn’t one of those backup-only types.

Bryant played in 55 total games and started 17 in the nickel.  Last season, he started a career-high nine games, recording 77 tackles, two forced fumbles and an interception.

Bryant also played clean football, recording 443 coverage snaps without a penalty after being flagged twice in the first three games.

The Texans tied the Philadelphia Eagles for the league lead in defensive pass interference calls last season, making Bryant’s addition more than welcomed.

Houston’s final listed nickel cornerback on the team’s depth chart is D’Angelo Ross, though it’s hard to imagine a player with 50 career coverage snaps pushing for a starting spot.

Lassiter may have to play the nickel out of necessity. In that scenario, Houston, barring a late free agent signing, would turn to Jeff Okudah or C.J. Henderson.

Lassiter played in the slot during his freshman campaign in Athens, albeit in limited playing time. Over the next two seasons, he became one of the stickiest defenders in college football, allowing the fewest completions and the second-lowest completion percentage among FBS defensive backs.

As an All-SEC defender in 2023, Lassiter surrendered 136 yards on 15 catches last season with Georgia. Opponents completed just 38.5% of passes when targeting receivers covered the Alabama native. 

The Texans looked past Lassiter’s 40-time and looked at other measurables. An area of strength for the “Locksmith” came in the three-cone drill, where he posted the fastest time (6.62) of any defensive back at the combine. 

It’ll be an evolving story throughout the offseason as the Texans look to improve their pass defense, which conceded the 10th-most yards through the air last season.

DeMeco Ryans pleased with Texans OL Kenyon Green’s offseason progress

DeMeco Ryans provided another promising update on Kenyon Green as he looks to add consistency to the Houston Texans’ offensive line in 2024.

The best ability is availability, something Kenyon Green hasn’t been graced with since joining the Houston Texans in 2022.

Green, a two-time All-American at Texas A&M and former first-round pick, was limited to 11 games during his rookie season and produced mixed results. A year later, his season was over before it began as he would undergo shoulder surgery following the preseason finale.

Year 3 development is essential for Green if he plans to be a part of Houston’s long-term outlook. Little is guaranteed in terms of his status entering June, but there’s a noticeable difference in Green after spending a year on the injured reserved.

“First off credit to him for the work that he has done,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said Wedensday following minicamp. “He has changed his body, he is looking good, looking lean. He is able to move better, and I see a more athletic guy. I see a guy that has actually been able to stay on the field and I think that has been the main thing for Kenyon and just availability.

“The work that he has done in the offseason, he has given himself that chance and he will continue to build off of that and come back in camp ready to roll.”

Green trimmed some of the inches and bulked up the muscle during his time away from the field. He remained in the building but also worked out on the sides as Houston clinched its first playoff berth in four years.

Ryans said long stints on the IR can derail a person’s spirit, so it was important to keep encouraging Green throughout the process.

“It is a difficult time when you’re going through an injury, everybody else is out at practice and you are going home that is a tough spot to be in, but he has been encouraged through it all, seeing the smile on his face,” Ryans said.

A year later, Green looks more agile when holding blocks for C.J. Stroud and opening lanes for Joe Mixon. Throughout drills on Wednesday, he worked with the first-team offense at left guard.

Ideally, Houston hopes Green can remain healthy. General manager Nick Caserio saw the upside of a prominent run blocker who held his own in pass protection during his three seasons as a starter in College Station.

Should Green win the starting left guard position, Houston’s offensive line would be secure, barring a late-training camp injury. Tytus Howard and Pro Bowler Laremy Tunsil are out due to knee injuries, but they’re expected back for the start of next month’s camp.

Shaq Mason isn’t moving from right guard, and the Texans traded up into the second round last season to make Juice Scruggs their center.

Green will have to earn his way onto the field. Ryans’ conversations with the former first-round pick should serve as a sign the path to starting won’t be a concern.

“He is just like, ‘Coach, I am ready to get back out there, it looks like it is fun out there I am excited to go play again.’ ” Ryans said of Green’s enthusiasm to return. “So, seeing that in his eyes I am excited to see him go compete.”

Tank Dell returns to Houston Texans with better outlook, bigger goals

Tank Dell has battled back from a season-ending leg injury and being shot in the offseason to hopefully break record for the Texans this fall.

Tank Dell had big goals entering Year 2 with the Houston Texans.

Those goals have grown in the recent weeks since his life saw a shake-up.

Dell, the Texans’ breakout receiver of the 2023 season, is thankful to be able to still play football after being shot in the leg during a bar altercation in his home state of Florida following the draft. He considers himself blessed that someone was watching over him that night in Sanford.

“God blessed me to get out of that situation healthy,” Dell said speaking to the local media for the first time since the shooting. “I was only down for like a week, but I was just working out. But after that, I got right back to work, and I’m feeling good.”

Dell, 24, was one of 10 people who suffered non-life-threatening injuries during the shooting. Earlier this week, police released video evidence of Dell getting caught in the middle of the altercation as shots were fired.

A 16-year-old suspect was charged with attempted homicide, firing a weapon in a public place, using a firearm during a felony and illegal possession of a firearm by a minor. All 10 victims survived, suffering only minor wounds.

The moment scared Dell, wondering what would happen to his career, though the moment also affected others waiting to hear an update.

“I don’t want to put myself in that type of position. And especially like my family, like I got a little brother, my mom,” Dell said. “I know how they were feeling at that time. And it’s just a blessing that I’m safe. But it’s a traumatic experience.”

Mentally, Dell feels back on pace. He still goes to church on Tuesdays and prays every morning and every night. He talks to his grandma more often through daily text messages.

And sights are set on a promising future with Houston now viewed as a playoff threat. Dell has big goals this upcoming season, including finding the end zone at least 10 times over 17 games.

“I’m looking forward to stepping in that light and achieving them,” Dell said.

Dell wants to expand his role in the offense, one that features dominant No. 1 target Nico Collins and the newly acquired Stefon Diggs. C.J. Stroud, one of Dell’s best friends, will have his choice of target to fire at on Sundays as Houston looks to clinch its first conference title in franchise history.

While Collins and Diggs may have experience, there’s little reason to imagine Dell taking a step down on offense. As the No. 2 target last season, he proved to be an essential asset, hauling in 47 catches for 709 yards and seven touchdowns.

He was on pace for over 1,200 receiving yards before a broken fibula suffered against Denver sidelined him for the rest of the regular season. Since then, Dell’s received countless support from teammates and members of the organization.

“Everybody’s been showing a lot of love and just letting me know, reassuring me they’re right by my side the whole time every step of the way, so that’s been good,” Dell said.

Since his return, Dell has been working his way up to full speed, though he looks near-perfect during drills. He’s been a full participant since last week’s voluntary OTAs began, winning multiple routes in coverage both during team drills and 7-on-7 routes.

During Tuesday’s open session for media members, Dell broke free for a gain of 25 yards during team drills while matched in man coverage. While the catch was impressive, the throw from Stroud couldn’t have been placed better.

Consider that a tribute to the duo’s success and friendship off the field.

“Just got a lot of love for that guy.,” Stroud said. “I’m very excited for him. He’s been snapping at practice and doing really well, and to knock off the rust that quick shows how much work he’s put in.”

Stroud, who relied on Dell in marquee games during his rookie season, learned that Dell was shot while attending a basketball game in Philadelphia. In a recent podcast, he called the situation  an “eye-opener.”

The duo grew close during the rookie season because of their faith. Stroud thanked God when he found out Dell would be fine following the incident.

“We have those conversations about our faith. This football stuff, it seems like it’s everything, but it’s not,” Stroud said. “We’re people, and we go through a lot off the field people don’t know (about). As his brother, I have to be there for him just like he’s there for me when I go through what I go through. So I’m just proud of him. The word proud isn’t probably even enough to state the feelings that I have.”

There’s a light at the end of the tunnel for Dell in his return. While the path back to play came with blockage, he’s emerged from the other side with a clearer mind.

His goals are lofty, but achievable. It might take time, but the second-year receiver is ready to take the next step.

He’s also thankful that there’s another step to take in his career.

“I give all the glory to God for sure,” said Dell. “It’s been a blessing, nothing short of a blessing.”

Texans excited for Danielle Hunter to flourish in DeMeco Ryans’ defense

Now at practice, the Houston Texans expect big things from Danielle Hunter in 2024 coming off the edge.

Two is better than one, especially when adding pressure to a quarterback off the edge. Houston Texans‘ gunslinger C.J. Stroud knows what it feels like to have the pocket collapse and end a play.

He’s also lucky to only face Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter in practice and not during the regular season.

Hunter, the prized addition to the Texans’ defensive line, gave a taste of what Texans fans should expect coming off the edge during drills at Thursday’s voluntary OTAs. During an 11-on-11 drill, Stroud could find a target downfield for a first down.

Instead, he found Hunter inches away from placing him on his back.

“Danielle obviously has a history of success rushing the passer,” Texans defensive coordinator Matt Burke said. “We think that, hopefully, playing in this front and stylistically can even enhance that. Partnering him with Will (Anderson Jr.) and the other guys we have rushing, we’re excited to see how that comes to fruition.”

Signed to a two-year, $49 million deal this offseason, that play is what Houston is hoping to get on the regular from the Houston native who wanted to return home. The only difference is that Blake Fisher, the second-round pick out of Notre Dame, won’t be Hunter’s target.

All-Pro Ronnie Stanley from Baltimore will.

So will veteran Taylor Decker and Pro Bowler Penei Sewell from Detriot.

Oh, and don’t forget about standout Dion Dawkins from Buffalo. He arrives at NRG Stadium for the Stefon Diggs revenge match in Week 5.

Hunter should live up to the billing back home. He’s coming off a career-high and lead-leaguing 23.5 tackles for loss. He also finished top-five nationally in sacks (16.5) and totaled 84 tackles.

Hunter alone would create chaos, but having Anderson, the reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year, only doubles the concern.

“If they’re focusing attention on Hunter or Will or whoever, it sort of unlocks some other things that we can do or how we manipulate some of those (pass) protections,” Burke said. “I think just having (Hunter’s) presence and his history of what he’s done in the league, teams are going to have to account for where he is and how we’re using him.”

Hunter, who currently ranks sixth among active pass-rushers in sacks (87.5), could hit triple-digits if he emulates similar numbers from his time in Minneapolis. Anderson, who broke J.J. Watt’s rookie sack record, is looking to hit the double-digit marker for the first time in his young career.

Adding Hunter should open the pass rush for Anderson. Most teams with two high-upside pass rushers see one used as the decoy for the other attacks. That doesn’t mean both defenders can’t hit 10-plus sacks or tackles for loss.

Anderson, who finished third in pressure rate among all pass-rushers in 2023, should see those numbers double with another year in the system. With Hunter in the fold, Burke isn’t expecting breakout numbers, but he is expecting better production.

“There was times last year Will was just throwing fastballs and being Will, but I think his understanding the defense and protections and things like that are growing as I have conversations with him. Excited to see where he takes that, for sure.”

Where does PFF have Texans’ roster ranked entering 2024?

The Houston Texans aggressively upgraded in the offseason to maximize C.J. Stroud’s rookie contract, with the roster seventh in PFF’s list

The Houston Texans’ voluntary OTAs continued Thursday morning with a few new faces debuting on the team’s practice field. 

Four-time Pro Bowl receiver Stefon Diggs dawned the No. 1 jersey in what was the most anticipated arrival of the offseason. Fellow Pro Bowler and Houston native Danielle Hunter joined him on the practice field while working reps at defensive end. 

Pro Football Focus is riding the Houston hype, ranking its roster the seventh-best among all 32 teams entering June.  

San Francisco took the top spot followed by reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City at No. 2 The Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, Baltimore Ravens and Detroit Lions rounded out the list ahead of Houston.

Six teams ranked in the top 10 will take on the reigning AFC South champs, thus pushing Houston’s seventh-ranked strength of schedule. Still, PFF believes with that much talent, the Texans should hit the over at 9.5 wins. 

This is an offense fueled with ample firepower, headlined by Offensive Rookie of the Year C.J. Stroud. Last season, en route to leading Houston back to the postseason for the first time since 2019, Stroud threw for 4,108 yards and 23 touchdowns against five interceptions while completing over 65% of his passes. 

Diggs joins a receiving room of newly extended Nico Collins, Tank Dell, Noah Brown, Robert Woods, John Metchie III and Ben Skowronek. There’s no shortage of receiving talent, even without mentioning tight ends such as Dalton Schultz and fourth-round selection Cade Stover.

Houston also upgraded its rushing attack by trading for former Pro Bowler Joe Mixon. Last season, Houston ranked 28th in rushing while averaging less than 98 yards per game between Dameon Pierce and Devin Singletary. 

“It takes all limits off for whatever you feel you need to do to win a game,” Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik said.

Houston must get better play from its offensive line if it hopes to win a Super Bowl. Both Laremy Tunsil and Tytus Howard were absent from Thursday’s practice, though it was expected given their rehabilitation. 

Tunsil had an offseason knee scope. Howard, who enters the first season of his three-year extension, required season-ending surgery in November. 

Howard mostly played at guard last season out of necessity as former 15th pick Kenyon Green missed the entire season with an injury. Improved health could elevate Houston’s offense further. 

Hunter’s the headliner on defense but there’s more than just him coming over in 2024. Denico Autry, Jeff Okudah and Azeez Al-Shaair were three of the Texans’ more significant signings during free agency.

Hunter and Autry should pair with Will Anderson Jr. to form a tantalizing pass-rush trio. Houston also brought back No. 3 pass-rusher Derek Barnett on a one-year deal and drafted former USC standout Solomon Byrd. 

Al-Shaair replaces linebacker Blake Cashman and reunites with head coach and defensive play-caller DeMeco Ryans, whom he played under in San Francisco. 

Questions about the defense occur in the back end with no clear answer at the cornerback spot opposite Derek Stingley Jr. The former No. 3 pick will handle a heavy load, taking the best receiver weekly, something he’s been preparing for since the end of last season. 

“I’ve seen Sting in the building every day since February, so I think he’s really locked in and committed to take it to the next level,” Texans defensive coordinator Matt Burke said Thursday. 

Injuries at the safety position, specifically Jimmie Ward, led to inconsistent play. Jalen Pitre struggled in his sophomore campaign after a successful rookie season. Burke acknowledged a growing comfort zone and knowledge of scheme in Pitre, which should help him play faster and more instinctively.

Houston addressed the position groups last month in the draft with the selections of Georgia corner Kamari Lassiter and USC safety Calen Bullock. Entering June, their permanent roles remain unknown, but both are versatile pieces. 

Lassiter was a physical coverage man during his three seasons in Athens and is capable of playing inside or outside. He allowed 14 receptions and 119 yards last year, but a poor forty-time dropped his draft stock. Lassiter’s a willing tackler, so his future may lie in the slot.

Nobody denied Bullock’s talent level, but inconsistencies kept teams away during the draft. Houston rolled the dice on the former All-Pac-12 product in the third round.

Like Lassiter, Bullock’s a pest in man coverage. He’s best suited for a role as a rangy ball-hawking safety.

Ultimately, there’s more known than unknown about the talented Texans roster, and it’s why fans and media are placing lofty expectations on the reigning AFC South champs.

Patrick Mahomes lists Texans QB C.J. Stroud as one of his favorites to watch

Super Bowl winning quarterback Patrick Mahomes went on Fox Sports “First Things First” and named C.J. Stroud as one of his favorite QBs.

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud made plenty of fans during his rookie season, including one particular competitor. 

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback and three-time Super Bowl winner Patrick Mahomes revealed on Fox Sports “First Things First” that Stroud is one of his favorite gunslingers to watch.

The two-time MVP also mentioned the Buffalo’s Josh Allen and Cincinnat’s Joe Burrow as his go-to watches when checking the tape. 

“He’s been a phenomenal player,” Mahomes said of Stroud. “He’s been out there making plays.”

Drafted out of Ohio State in 2023, Stroud threw for 4,108 yards and 23 touchdowns against five interceptions. His 1.0% interception rate was the lowest in the league, and his average of 274 yards per game was the highest. Had Stroud not missed two games with a concussion, he likely would have surpassed Andrew Luck’s rookie season passing yard record at 4,374.

Stroud, however, did join Hall of Famer Joe Montana and G.O.A.T Tom Brady to lead the league in passing yards and touchdown-to-interception ratio during the same season.

 

Mahomes interestingly named the three quarterbacks—outside of Jackson— who are his biggest competition for the top spot in the AFC. 

Of the trio named, only Burrow, who still recovering from a season-ending wrist injury, has beaten Mahomes in the postseason. Allen is 3-1 against Mahomes in the regular season but is 0-3 in the playoffs, including a 27-24 loss in the divisional round this past season.

Stroud has yet to play Mahomes, though that will change come Dec. 21 when the two meet in Week 16’s standalone contest at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs matchup is in the middle of the Texans’ hardest three-week stretch next season.

Stroud is the latest AFC quarterback to emerge as a potential threat to Mahomes. He’s been nearly unbeatable in the postseason, collecting three Super Bowl rings before his 29th birthday.

Only Brady and Burrow have defeated him in the playoffs since he took over for Alex Smith in 2018.  

Stroud hopes to become the third quarterback to do so in what could start a potential rivalry. 

Which Texans free agent CB signing has the upper hand?

The Houston Texans signed two former first-round cornerbacks in free agency. Which one has the inside track to be the starter?

The Houston Texans’ voluntary OTAs began Monday, providing the front office and coaching staff the first opportunity to see the offseason acquisitions.

After its surprising 10-7 finish to last year, Houston aggressively upgraded its roster, signing a league-high 26 free agents, including former first-round cornerbacks Jeff Okudah and C.J. Henderson.

Okudah and Henderson, along with second-round pick Kamari Lassiter, will vie for the starting outside spot opposite rising star Derek Stingley Jr.

Right now it feels like Lassiter, the No. 42 pick out of Georgia, is competing with Desmond King for starting reps in the nickel, meaning Okudah and Henderson will battle it out on the edge.

Does one of the former top-10 picks have the upper hand?

The case for Okudah

After three rocky seasons in Detroit, the Lions shipped him off to Atlanta before the start of the 2023 season. Okudah played in 12 games, starting nine and putting together arguably his best campaign since coming out of Ohio State. 

At 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, Okudah physically fits the mold of Texans head coach and defensive play caller DeMeco Ryans’ vision for an outside cornerback. After Tuesday’s practice, Ryans described Okudah and Henderson as “elite movers.”

In Atlanta’s Week 9 matchup with Minnesota, Okudah (No. 1) is beaten inside by alignment yet has the speed to stick with rookie Jordan Addison throughout his crossing route. He displays an uptick in ball skills by deflecting the pass at the last second for an incompletion. 

The Falcons were heavily a man-based coverage unit, which fits Okudah’s skill set. He’s a sticky defender, especially in press situations. 

Here, Okudah is matched up with Washington’s Terry McLaurin in a late-down scenario. He does a nice job delivering a jab with his inside arm to get contact with McLaurin. The two engage in some hand fighting before McLaurin cuts toward the first-down marker.

Okudah’s length and acceleration allow him to recover and get the defense off the field. 

Another benefit of Okudah is his willingness and ability to tackle. Last season, he posted a 6.7% missed tackle rate, ranking in the top 20 among cornerbacks in the NFL. Having defensive backs willing to lay their bodies down for a stop is crucial, especially after the NFL banned the hip-drop tackle this offseason. 

Play recognition was a positive in Okudah’s game too, as evident on this screen against the Titans. He quickly breaks on the receiver once he realizes it’s a screen, not allowing any potential blockers to get their hands on him before finishing the play against tight end Chigoziem Okonkwo.

The Case for Henderson

The Jaguars took Henderson ninth overall in the 2020 draft out of Florida but traded him just a year and a half into his tenure. He spent the last two-plus seasons with the Panthers, starting 22 games both in the nickel and on the perimeter.

Four years into his career, Henderson’s results have been mixed. The Panthers played more zone coverage in 2023 under defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero than they had in Henderson’s first two years with the team, potentially leading to regression. 

From Week 2 to Week 9, Henderson served as the outside cornerback, allowing 11 receptions for 128 yards and a touchdown. Henderson played zone coverage on 67.6% of snaps, just slightly higher than Stingley’s rate a year ago.

Henderson is responsible for the wide side of the field and shows solid closing speed, making it a heavily contested catch for Noah Brown. C.J. Stroud delivered a perfect ball, but Henderson displayed his ability to recognize routes underneath and break.

Like Okudah, Henderson is 6-1 and weighs over 200 pounds, but he’s more compact. While Henderson played a lot of zone coverage last season, he came into the NFL profiling as a man cornerback. 

Henderson mirrors and matches Sehawks’ DK Metcalf’s pitter-patter off the line of scrimmage and then beats the physical receiver to his spot on the inside.

The physical coverage throws Metcalf off, and he settles for a noncompetitive curl route in favor of Henderson. 

Henderson gets in trouble when matching receivers down the field, especially in zone coverage. He is overly reliant on his athleticism to carry him in matchups, occasionally leading to him getting beat deep.

Regardless, Henderson’s fluidity in coverage at his size makes him worth a flier on a one-year deal. 

The Verdict

Barring any other veteran cornerback signings, Okudah will — and should — start Week 1. Houston has a higher financial commitment in Okudah, albeit $2.7 million, and his film is much cleaner.

The decision to bring in two players lauded for their man coverage skills is interesting. Since he started play calling in 2021 with San Francisco, Ryans’ most used coverages are Cover-3 and Cover-4.

Stingley can hold up in man coverage, suggesting a potential uptick in man defense in the upcoming season. 

How does new WR Ben Skowronek fit into Texans’ plans

New Houston Texans wide receiver Ben Skowronek could be an interesting jack-of-all-trades type of guy for the offense in 2024.

Ben Skowronek won’t be hitting waivers after all.

The Houston Texans have acquired the Los Angeles Rams’ special teams captain in exchange for a pick swap, according to reports. Instead of picking in their normal positions during the 2026 draft, the Rams and Texans will swap positions in the sixth and seventh rounds.

Skowronek, 26, is entering his fourth season since being a seventh-round pick out of Notre Dame. He’s mostly been a productive backup during his time out west but proved to have upside as a part-time starter during the 2022 season in place of Cooper Kupp.

Skowronek had his role reduced last season, playing only 19% of offensive snaps after playing 82% in 2022. Of course, with the emergence of rookie sensation Puka Nacua, reps were scarce in the passing attack.

It’ll be more of the same in Houston entering training camp. General manager Nick Caserio has proven his willingness to be aggressive in landing talent he covets, but it doesn’t mean the player will be a Day 1 starter.

Cracking the starting lineup will be challenging, let alone the active 53-man roster. Houston traded a 2025 second-round pick earlier this offseason to acquire four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs from Buffalo. The Texans also bring back breakout stars Tank Dell and Nico Collins, along with John Metchie III.

Where Skowronek likely earns his place in on special teams. Since joining the Rams in 2021, he’s played at least 58% percent of special teams snaps, including 71% of special teams snaps in 2023.

Skowronek made 13 tackles last season and was one of the top gunners on kickoffs and punts.

Nothing should be promised regarding Skowronek’s role, but given the expertise on special teams, he could have an upper hand over most. He first will have to beat out other receivers like Noah Brown, Robert Woods, Xavier Hutchinson, Steven Sims and others for a spot on the active roster.

Should Texans Trade For Saints Pro Bowl CB Marshon Lattimore?

In a recent article Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay mocked the Texans acquiring Marshon Lattimore, but is it a move they should consider?

The Houston Texans have been one of the league’s more active teams this offseason as they prepare to build off last year’s surprise playoff run. 

Even after landing Georgia’s Kamari Lassiter with its first selection in last month’s draft, cornerback remains a position of need. And with the Texans following the “all-in” persona, perhaps they’re willing to part with another mid-round pick for a high-profile prospect.

In the latest article Bleacher Report, Alex Kay positioned a trade that would send four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore to Houston in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick.

Lattimore, 27, could come with a lower trade value since the Saints are up against the salary cap. New Orleans will be a league-high $72.8 million over the cap in 2025 due to its refusal to rebuild since the retirement of future Hall of Fame quarterbak Drew Brees. 

The Saints have been in a comparable spot for years but always got under the salary threshold by trading some of their highest earners and Lattimore fits the description. He’s slated to make $14.6 million in 2024 before the per-year price jumps to $31.4 million in 2025 and $28.6 million in the final year of the deal. 

Moving on from Lattimore seems more reasonable after the New Oreleans selection of Kool-Aid McKinstry in Round 2. The Alabama product has the tools to be a day-one starter, making Lattimore flexible to ship elsewhere. 

Houston continues to be in the market for veteran talent as it tries to put together a deep playoff run while franchise quarterback C.J. Stroud remains on his rookie contract. 

Below is why the Texans should and should not trade for Lattimore. 

Why The Texans Should Make A Trade

Since being selected with the 11th pick in the 2017 draft, Lattimore has been one of the league’s best defensive backs. In seven seasons, he’s had 15 interceptions along with 86  defelcted passes and two defensive touchdowns.

Houston has spent the offseason throwing several darts at the position, hoping one sticks opposite of Derek Stingley Jr. During free agency, the

Texans took chances on one-year deals with former first-round picks Jeff Okudah and CJ Henderson. In the draft, they took Lassiter, who has experience both in the slot and on the boundary. 

Lattimore would immedietly start opposite the third-year Stingley while Lassiter settled into the NFL. Lassiter likely would compete with veteran Desmond King for first-team reps at the nickel.  

Houston’s already made multiple win-now moves throughout the offseason as it prepares for a first-place schedule after winning the AFC South. Next season, the Texans face seven teams ranked in the top 10 for passing yards from a year ago.

And keep in mind that the Bears just added No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams and the Jets welcome back Aaron Rodgers in their hunt for a postseason berth. 

While the Texans had an above-average defensive unit a year ago, their pass coverage numbers were underwhelming. Opponents averaged the sixth-highest (6.5) net yards gained per pass attempt against Houston’s secondary last season. Houston’s upgraded its pass rush, but adding Lattimore would take the defense from the middle of the pack to the upper echelon. 

Lattimore might be a veteran, but he’s still in his prime entering Year 8. His addition would bring a veteran presence to a young but prosperous defensive back room. 

Why The Texans Should Not Make A Trade

Despite still having $23 million in 2024 cap space and a projected $46 million next offseason, Houston needs to plan beyond this fall when discussing extensions to players who prospered a season ago. 

Nico Collins is in the last year of his deals and will command a significant pay raise. So will Stefon Diggs, whom Houston traded a 2025 second-round pick for to Buffalo earlier this offseason. Even after voiding the final three years of his contract, the four-time Pro Bowl target remains in talks toward a new deal. 

Christian Harris, Denico Autry and Jalen Pitre will be free agents entering 2026. So could Stingely and fellow former first-round pick Kenyon Green if GM Nick Caserio elects to pass on picking up their fifth-year options. 

In 2026, four of Houston’s anticipated offensive line starters, including All-Pro Laremy Tunsil, will hit the market.

Reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year Will Anderson Jr. and Stroud’s second contracts will likely be near the top of their position group if they continue their trajectory toward stardom. 

More to the point, acquiring Lattimore is an immediate splash move, but it also impairs Houston’s spending limits in the future.

Injuries have also limited Lattimore to playing in half of the Saints’ games the past two seasons, making him a risky option with a significant hit against his team’s salary cap. 

 

The same injuries have hurt Lattimore’s versatility in coverage. When Lattimore has been in coverage the past two seasons, the opposing receiver’s average yards per reception is 11.3, the lowest mark of his career. 

New Orleans is no longer asking Lattimore to carry receivers downfield. Instead, it’s transitioned him to playing more underneath coverage. It’s hard to imagine the Texans wanting to bring in an oft-injured, expensive, scheme-dependent cornerback rather than find a cheap stop plug.

Caserio has also done well in this area in recent years, gaining quality play from veteran options such as King and Steven Nelson, who could return on another short-term deal. 

Should Texans extend Nico Collins before 2024 season begins?

With Nico Collins entering the final year of his rookie contract, and annual salaries rising, The Houston Texans should extend him now.

NFL free agency started over a month ago, and the NFL draft happened last week, leaving fans to wait for rookie minicamp and offseason training activities to start.

Now enters one of the quietest times of the year for fans, but it doesn’t mean teams aren’t working hard behind the scenes to improve their rosters.

The Houston Texans are in a good spot after an extremely active offseason. Houston filled several holes in free agency and through offseason trades, bolstering its roster to compete with the elite teams in the AFC for years to come.

There’s more work to do, and with $23.6 million in cap space, according to Over The Cap, the Texans have plenty of ammunition to secure deals. But what about taking care of one of their own?

Wide receiver Nico Collins is entering the final year of his rookie contract. Because he was not a first-round pick, he cannot receive a fifth-year option.

Houston’s options are either to make him a deal, put him on the franchise tag after the season, or watch him walk in free agency.

Collins had a breakout third season, totaling 80 receptions for 1,297 yards and eight touchdowns while becoming quarterback C.J. Stroud’s primary target. The former third-round pick is in line for a cushy new contract that reflects his level of play.

On “The Athletic Football Show“, co-hosts Nate Tice and Robert Mays argued that Houston should look to make a deal sooner rather than later. So what’s the holdup?

 

Injuries, inadequate quarterback play, and an overall bad environment for a young wide receiver hurt Collins in his first two seasons. The results were 70 catches for 927 yards and three touchdowns across 24 games. 

Houston may want to see another year of production before they hand out wide receiver one money to Collins. The acquisition of former All-Pro Stefon Diggs adds to the target competition, so how Collins plays alongside a fellow upper-echelon wideout may factor into its decision.

However, it’s a dangerous game to wait and see. Around the league, teams are locking up their young receivers, with Indianapolis signing Michael Pittman Jr. to a three-year deal worth $70 million, including a $46 million total guarantee, and Philadelphia inking Devonta Smith to a three-year, $75 million contract.

Neither Pittman nor Smith reached Collins’ level in 2023, though both have been sturdy options in their respective passing games, hence why Tice and Mays argue the Texans should get the deal done now before the asking price expands to top-10 status next offseason. 

“He (Collins) looks like a top-10 guy now, and I would give him Devonta Smith pay, so he plays like A.J. Brown,” Mays said.

Smith’s $25 million annual salary serves as a good benchmark for a potential Collins extension. However, as more time passes, more teams iron out deals. 

The Lions inked Amon-Ra St. Brown to a four-year, $120 million contract – the largest annual average for a receiver until Brown’s three-year, $96 million extension –  on Apr. 24. St. Brown’s contract includes $77 million in guarantees the second most behind Brown’s monster deal which guarantees him $84 million. 

Star receivers like Justin Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase are awaiting new deals, and both will likely reset the market by this time next offseason. 

The price tag for receivers — more specifically leading targets — only continues to grow. In 2019, Julio Jones’ three-year, $66 million was the largest extension. Today, Jones’ 22 million salary would rank lower than  Diggs’ $22.5 million pay, which currently is the 12th highest-ranked contract among receivers, according to Spotrac. 

While the logic of waiting another year and making Collins prove he’s elite holds some merit, what if he takes another step in Year 4?

In games featuring Tank Dell, Collins posted 50 receptions for 800 yards and five touchdowns. Over 17 games, the average comes out to 85 catches, 1,360 yards, and eight touchdowns. 

Diggs’ arrival only takes more attention off of Collins. An improved run game and better health along the offensive line bodes well for the offense as a whole and for Collins to raise his efficiency level, which was top five in nearly every metric last season.

Pro Football Focus graded him as the fifth-best receiver last year, and he finished top in yards after catch per reception and yards per route run. 

Texans general manager Nick Caserio hasn’t been keen on giving lucrative contracts. In three years, the largest contract he’s dished out was to All-Pro Laremy Tunsil worth $75 million over three years. 

It would make sense for Collins’ deal to be in a similar range. A three-year extension would come off the books right as Stroud enters his sixth season, which, if the Texans use the fifth-year option, would be the first year of his perceived monster deal. 

Nobody expected Collins to be a number one option heading into last season, but now it’s clear he can be for years.

The clock is ticking for Caserio and company to complete a deal.