Fixing the Texans’ Biggest Offensive Flaws: A Roadmap to Success in 2025

The Texans' offense had its fair share of struggles in 2024, with several frustrating and ineffective performances. Too often, they found themselves behind the chains on third down and lacked answers against top-tier defenses. To win a championship, an offense must be able to produce regardless of the competition.

Here are three key areas the Texans must improve to turn their offense into a powerhouse capable of complementing their elite defense.

1. Establish a More Efficient Run Game

While the Texans ranked middle of the pack in yards per carry (4.4), the advanced metrics paint a different picture of inconsistency. They had the second-worst success rate on the ground, the second-highest run-stuff rate, and ranked 9th worst in EPA per rush.

To take pressure off C.J. Stroud and the passing game, Houston must develop a more reliable rushing attack, especially against high-level opponents. This past season, they averaged under three yards per carry in games against the Vikings, Titans, Ravens, and Lions—three of which were playoff teams.

A more effective ground game will not only improve the offense as a whole but also help Stroud by creating more favorable coverage looks and increasing opportunities for explosive play-action passes.

2. Protect C.J. Stroud Better

In his introductory press conference, Nick Caley emphasized that protecting the quarterback is a collective effort. From receivers getting open quickly to the offensive line minimizing quick pressures, every player has a role in keeping Stroud upright.

Stroud was the second-most sacked quarterback in the league and faced 240 total pressures, making him the fourth-most pressured QB in the NFL. If the Texans want to unlock his full potential as a playmaker, they must address this issue.

Houston has already made significant investments in the offensive line through the draft and free agency. That makes another first-round pick or major signing a costly move unless a true game-changer is available. With Cole Popovich and Nick Caley leading adjustments, the Texans may need to rely on the continued development of Jarrett Patterson, Juice Scruggs, and Blake Fisher.

Additionally, Stroud will take on protection-call responsibilities in Houston’s new system, which should help eliminate many of the pre-snap communication breakdowns that plagued the offensive line last season.

3. Stroud Must Get the Ball Out Quicker

Despite the high pressure and sack count, Stroud ranked fourth-highest in time to throw (TTT) and pocket time, according to Next Gen Stats and Pro Football Reference. While his ability to extend plays is a strength, he must balance that with getting the ball out quicker to alleviate pressure on the offensive line.

Caley stressed that it takes all 11 players to protect the quarterback, and that includes Stroud himself. Though he faced frequent quick pressures, adjusting by delivering the ball faster—at least closer to the league average—would be a significant step forward.

While Stroud’s tendency to hunt for big plays has been a defining trait, evolving his game to include quicker decisions and more efficient passing could make him even more dangerous. Adding that layer to his skill set will force defenses to adjust and create even more opportunities for explosive plays.

The Path to a Championship-Caliber Offense

These three improvements will put C.J. Stroud in the best position to be the dynamic playmaker he was as a rookie. A more effective run game will force defenses into single-high coverages, which Stroud has consistently exploited. Improved pass protection, combined with a quicker time to throw, will reduce sacks, limit negative plays, and keep him upright throughout the season. If the Texans can implement these changes, they’ll have a more balanced, explosive offense capable of competing with the NFL’s best in 2025.