The Houston Texans surged unexpectedly in the NFL during 2023, flipping their fortunes from a lackluster 3-13-1 season to an impressive 10-game victory, clinching the AFC South title.
However, within the organization, there are three key figures feeling the heat as they navigate pivotal roles:
1. Running back Dameon Pierce, who entered the spotlight with a promising rookie campaign, amassing 939 rushing yards and four touchdowns along with significant contributions in the passing game.
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Despite starting as the lead back in 2023, he lost his position to Devin Singletary midway through the season, culminating in a lackluster performance with only two games surpassing 50 rushing yards.
With the recent acquisition of Joe Mixon, poised to assume the role of the primary running back, Pierce faces the challenge of reclaiming his prominence within the team.
Another subpar season akin to his 2023 performance might relegate him to a diminished role in favor of lesser-known counterparts.
2. Wide receiver Robert Woods, recruited last offseason to bolster the Texans’ receiving corps, finds himself under scrutiny given his hefty salary of nearly $10 million juxtaposed with modest output: 40 receptions, 426 yards, and one touchdown in the previous season.
With emerging talents like Nico Collins and Tank Dell solidifying their positions as the top receivers, Woods is left to vie for the WR3 spot against contenders such as Noah Brown, John Metchie, and Xavier Hutchinson.
Brown, notably, surpassed Woods in the depth chart midseason, showcasing superior yardage and a higher yards-per-catch average.
Woods faces the prospect of starting the upcoming season as a peripheral figure within the team’s receiving hierarchy.
3. Defensive end Jerry Hughes, who led the Texans in sacks during 2022, experienced a downturn in performance in 2023, recording only three sacks and 30 pressures across 17 games.
With the team reinforcing its defensive line with acquisitions like Denico Autry, Mario Edwards Jr., and Danielle Hunter, Hughes faces intensified pressure to deliver as a pass rusher.
Failure to meet expectations could jeopardize his tenure with the team, particularly with competition for his position escalating.
In summary, Pierce, Woods, and Hughes find themselves in precarious positions within the Houston Texans organization, each tasked with overcoming challenges and demonstrating their value amidst evolving team dynamics and heightened expectations.
