The Houston Texans are preparing for significant changes during the upcoming offseason, with several key starters potentially losing their roles in the 2026 lineup. While discussions have circulated about trading quarterback C.J. Stroud, the team is more likely to keep him, given the rarity of finding a capable quarterback. However, multiple other starters face uncertain futures as the Texans aim to improve a struggling roster ahead of next season.
Wide Receiver Christian Kirk’s Role in Question
Christian Kirk, acquired in a trade last season, may not return as a starter for the Texans. Kirk’s performance in 2025 was disappointing; he caught only 28 passes for 239 yards and one touchdown, marking the worst season of his career by a significant margin. Although he delivered strong playoff performances, including eight receptions for 144 yards and a touchdown against the Steelers, it was not enough to secure his place moving forward.
Complicating Kirk’s standing is Houston’s investment in younger receivers, particularly their recent draft picks Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel. Additionally, the Texans expect the return of Tank Dell, who has shown the ability to stretch defenses when healthy, despite injury setbacks in his early career. Given these factors, a costly contract extension for Kirk is unlikely as the Texans lean toward developing homegrown talent.
Upgrade Needed at Right Tackle Beyond Trent Brown
The offensive line remains a priority area needing improvement, especially at right tackle, where Trent Brown served as starter in 2025. Brown, 33, started seven games last year but is seen more as a veteran depth option than a long-term solution. The Texans are expected to seek a younger and more effective player to anchor the right tackle spot.
Potential approaches include pursuing free agents such as Braden Smith from the Colts or Jonah Williams from the Cardinals. Alternatively, Houston might target promising but affordable players like Josh Jones from Seattle or Larry Borom from Miami. The Texans also hold two early draft picks—28th overall and an early second-rounder from the Laremy Tunsil trade—to find a replacement, possibly targeting offensive tackle Monroe Freeling from Georgia.
Decline in Effectiveness Prompts Running Back Nick Chubb Exit
Nick Chubb’s 2025 season was marred by injuries that significantly diminished his running style and effectiveness. Comparing his 2025 performance to his fully healthy 2022 season highlights a clear drop-off. Age and physical setbacks reduced his ability to power through defenders, contributing to Houston’s inefficient red zone rushing, where the team ranked near the bottom of the NFL in touchdown percentage.
In goal-line situations, Chubb rushed 13 times for only 20 yards, underperforming compared to younger teammate Woody Marks. Houston’s backfield cannot rely on a tandem of Chubb and Marks, especially with Marks entering just his second NFL year. To improve the ground game, the Texans are expected to part ways with Chubb and look to younger, more durable options moving forward.
Uncertainty Surrounding Running Back Joe Mixon After Injury
Joe Mixon provides a complicated case, as he missed the entire 2025 season with a foot injury after a productive 2024 campaign. In 2024, Mixon ran for 1,016 yards and scored 11 touchdowns, significantly bolstering the Texans’ offense. However, his $10.5 million salary cap hit for 2026 poses financial challenges for Houston, which began the offseason over budget.
By releasing Mixon, the Texans could free up $8.5 million in cap space, an important consideration for roster flexibility. Furthermore, the uncertainty surrounding his recovery from injury makes the risk of keeping him less appealing. The Texans will likely avoid relying on Mixon’s health and opt to explore more reliable alternatives for the running back position.
Safety M.J. Stewart’s Starting Spot Is Not Guaranteed
M.J. Stewart’s status as a starter in 2026 is in doubt after an injury-shortened 2025 season. Stewart saw action in nine games, starting four, before a quad injury ended his play. He made modest contributions with two pass defenses and one forced fumble, arguably marking his best NFL performance to date. Yet the Texans have seen instability at safety throughout the year, with players like Calen Bullock holding down one safety spot and others such as Jimmie Ward and C.J. Gardner-Johnson failing to contribute due to injury or release.
While Stewart’s familiarity with the Texans’ defense could make him a valuable depth option, the team views him as a weak point in an otherwise strong defensive unit. Houston may seek an upgrade through the draft or trade to strengthen the secondary. A cost-effective return for Stewart as a backup is possible, but his role as a starter is unlikely if the Texans find a better alternative.
The Texans face a tumultuous offseason that will reshape much of their starting lineup. Although C.J. Stroud remains central to their future plans at quarterback, the organization appears set to overhaul key positions including wide receiver, offensive tackle, running back, and safety. These moves are crucial as Houston attempts to reverse its fortunes and build a more competitive roster for 2026 and beyond. How they manage salary cap challenges, draft selections, and free agency acquisitions will ultimately determine the team’s path forward in a demanding NFL landscape.
