The Houston Texans exceeded all expectations on their route from basement dwellers to AFC South champions. The acquisition of quarterback C.J. Stroud may have been the most crucial reason for Houston’s rise, but such a large-scale organizational shift is impossible without breakout performances from those already in the building. Almost every unit saw a returning player have a career year. Several of them, like edge rusher Jonathan Greenard and running back Devin Singletary, did it in a contract year.
Houston was subsequently named one of Pro Football Focus’ Top 101 players for the 2023 season.
Cashman, another player who burst out just in time for a new contract, showed off his athleticism in 2023.
Will Anderson Jr. may not have made this list, but the Texans may be pleased with their performance as the third overall pick. Stingley emerged as one of the league’s best cornerbacks, establishing himself as a defensive back capable of defending against quality receivers. His best game of the season may have been in the playoffs, when he faced Cleveland Browns WR Amari Cooper. Cooper, who reached 250 yards in his regular-season encounter with Houston, found Stingley to be a much stiffer opponent, with only one catch for -6 yards when the two met.
Tunsil’s inclusion among the league’s top tackles was one of the least shocking rankings on the list overall. Tunsil led an offensive line that appeared to have a limitless number of combinations at the season’s end. He played through ailments while remaining his usual consistent self, laying the groundwork for the remainder of the team’s performance. Poor play up front could have killed Houston’s season before it even began, but the offensive line, like the rest of the squad, managed to surprise.
There may not have been a veteran on this roster who made a greater leap than Collins. Bobby Slowik’s offensive scheme transformed him from a boundary-locked vertical threat to a diverse target capable of making plays after the catch and over the centre of the field.
Collins established himself as one of the sport’s top players, eliminating the need for the Texans to upgrade at receiver this offseason. He may have ranked higher than his quarterback, but their fortunes are inextricably linked, both with Houston and the ceiling of the offence they lead.
