In a striking move, the Houston Texans have decided to part ways with offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, along with offensive line coach Chris Strausser and assistant offensive line coach Cole Popovich. While the Texans enjoyed a successful regular season, clinching the AFC South title with a record of 10-7 and making the playoffs for the second consecutive year, the offensive performance left much to be desired. The inconsistency and struggles of the offensive unit compelled head coach DeMeco Ryans to reassess the coaching staff, leading to significant changes that reflect the team’s ambitions for improvement.
Despite their playoff run, the Texans offensively ranked a mediocre 18th in scoring, averaging just 22.1 points per game. A major element of concern was the poor pass protection provided to quarterback C.J. Stroud, who endured a staggering 52 sacks throughout the season, marking one of the highest rates in the league. This alarming statistic highlights not just the offensive line’s inadequacies but also raises questions about the effectiveness of the strategy employed by Slowik and his staff. With Stroud under consistent duress—experiencing pressure on nearly 39% of his dropbacks—the Texans offense failed to perform at its expected level.
The evaluation of Stroud’s performance showcases a steep decline from his impressive rookie season. In 2023, Stroud dazzled, finishing among the top in passing yards and boasting an exceptional touchdown-to-interception ratio. However, the following season saw a notable regression, as his statistical output dwindled significantly. Despite featuring Pro Bowl players such as left tackle Laremy Tunsil and running back Joe Mixon—who contributed over 1,000 rushing yards—the offense struggled in critical moments, averaging a league-low 7.5 points in the second halves of games.
One of the Texans’ foremost obstacles was their anemic productivity on third downs and in the red zone. Ranking 17th in third-down conversions (38.9%) and 28th in red zone scoring (48.4%), the team repeatedly faltered in high-stakes scenarios. The persistent issues raised doubts about the coaching team’s ability to devise effective game plans or adjust strategies mid-game. Ryans acknowledged the challenges faced, stating, “Overall, offensively, it wasn’t where we wanted to be. There were challenges throughout the year… We have to improve.”
The mid-season slump, particularly from Week 7 to Week 12, was a concerning flashpoint. Failing to score a single offensive touchdown during this stretch revealed deeper issues within the offensive scheme, indicative of a lack of creativity and adaptability. The loss of key players, such as wide receiver Stefon Diggs to an ACL injury, further compounded the offensive hurdles, but questions remain about the overall effectiveness of a unit that seemingly struggled to rise to the occasion, even with a capable roster.
A New Era Ahead
As the Texans look ahead, the search for a new offensive coordinator becomes paramount. The next hire will play a crucial role in reshaping the offensive identity of the team. With aspirations for success amplified by a promising young quarterback in Stroud and a solid core of offensive talent, the Texans are keen to establish an attacking philosophy that maximizes their capabilities.
The recent changes signal a commitment to improvement and a willingness to avoid complacency, reflecting the demands of a fiercely competitive league. As they prepare for a new chapter, Texans fans hope for a revitalized offense that can compete at the highest levels and ensure that the struggles of the past season become learning opportunities for a brighter future. The task ahead is monumental, but with the right leadership, the Texans could once again become a formidable force in the NFL.
