Predicting three Texans who will break out in 2023
The Texans will have many new faces on the roster for the 2023 season. Both sides of the ball have undergone a makover already, and the draft hasn't even happened yet. While there will undoubtedly be more talented players added to the roster, I wanted to assess the current team. We're going to try and […]
The Texans will have many new faces on the roster for the 2023 season.
Both sides of the ball have undergone a makover already, and the draft hasn't even happened yet. While there will undoubtedly be more talented players added to the roster, I wanted to assess the current team.
We're going to try and pinpoint three current Texans who could be set for big years in 2023.
Nico Collins/Noah Brown, WR
I decided to include both Collins and the new addition Brown.
The two receivers put up similar numbers in 2022, and both present as solid complimentary pieces. However, I just don't think there will be enough targets for both of these guys to break out.
The Texans currently have Robert Woods, John Metchie III, Steven Sims, and Amari Rodgers on the roster with Brown and Collins.
It can also be assumed that the team will draft a rookie receiver in the first or second round. So, Woods, a rookie, Metchie III, and one of Collins or Brown will likely be the four receivers who see the most snaps.
Rookie receivers take time to develop, Metchie III has yet to play an NFL game, and Woods is far from a number one option. This should lead to either Brown or Collins receiving a big role.
Don't be surprised if either Collins or Brown have a sneakily-good season in 2023. The targets are certainly up for grabs.
Tytus Howard, RT
Howard had his best season as a pro in 2022.
The tackle finished with a respectable 67.9 PFF grade, which was the highest mark of his career. Essentially, the longer Howard starts, the better he gets.
This could continue in 2023, as Howard is entering a contract year. In 2023, the former first-rounder will earn just over $13M after having his fifth-year option exercised.
Howard is also durable, having started at right tackle in all 17 games in 2022. If Howard stays healthy once again in 2023, his play should only improve.
It also won't hurt to have a better line around Howard. The addition of Shaq Mason is huge, and it seems likely that the team addresses the center position at some point.
Don't be surprised if Howard lands a massive payday this time next year.
Derek Stingley Jr., CB
Stingley had a tumultuous rookie season.
The third-overall pick from 2022 only played in 8 games a rookie due to a hamstring injury. In the games he did play, he struggled at times against NFL receivers.
Stingley was targeted 49 times and allowed 33 receptions. The corner ended the season with a 49.1 PFF grade, leaving much room for improvement.
I still believe Stingley can be an elite-level corner in the league. When healthy, he's an elite man-to-man corner and a proficient tackler. This is the same player who snagged six interceptions as a freshman at LSU in 2019.
Jimmie Ward was brought in this offseason, and he should be a great mentor for the young Stingley. Ward will play safety, but has experience as a nickel corner as well.
Other than Ward, the team has not brought in any notable help in the secondary. This means the team may not have a choice other than Stingley taking a major leap forward.