Despite a grueling preseason marred by injuries, Houston’s elite defense and C.J. Stroud’s high-stakes contract year position the team as a premier, must-watch Super Bowl contender.
The Houston Texans have had a rough preseason. In addition to losing the preseason exhibition games more often than not, they have suffered a handful of injuries.
Despite what was a frustrating month of August, the Texans are still viewed as a true contender leading into 2026. They are a contender because of what they have on defense.
Traditionally, the common fan has gravitated to offensive teams. Scoring points is exciting. That said, one writer suggests that defense may be enjoyable to watch this year.
ESPN NFL analyst Ben Solak writes that although defensive first teams usually are not that exciting to watch, the Texans are the exception to that rule. He ranked them as the No. 12 most watchable team in the NFL. Here's what Solak discussed on the excitement factor with Houston heading into the 2026 season.
"One of the lamentable realities of these rankings is offense is more watchable than defense. I wish it weren't true. I wish I loved the football of my forefathers -- 3 yards, a cloud of dust and a quality punt. But in the modern NFL, offense is king and points are views. Few defenses are good enough to break the watchability barrier ... but the Texans have one of the few.
If the offense can take a step forward in offensive coordinator Nick Caley's second season, the Texans will likely play fewer close games (12 one-score contests last season, tied for second most). But we'll take a watchability hit in photo finishes to get a watchability boost in better offense. Houston was 31st in rushing success rate and EPA per rush last season -- only Las Vegas was worse! Adding David Montgomery in the backfield, and players such as Keylan Rutledge and Wyatt Teller to the offensive line, should lift that number considerably. Terrible offensive performances are never worth tuning in to see, and functional play will not just make the Texans a Super Bowl contender ... it'll improve my viewing experience."
Aug 13, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans watches wide receiver Jared Wayne (89) catch a pass against Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Darien Porter (26) in the first quarter at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn ImagesThe offensive callout is warranted after a handful of no-show performances from the unit. Still, many expect starting quarterback C.J. Stroud to have a breakout season for a couple reasons.
For one, it's a contract year. Stroud can earn a higher paying contract with a good year this this year.
More than that, many expect improved offensive line play to catapult Stroud to a more productive offensive showing.
The Texans are a more consistent offense away from being one of the most watchable teams in the NFL. We'll see if they can pull it off when the season starts in Week 1.
