Fansided

Power rankings and record predictions

By Matt Verderame

Oct 26, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) against the Baltimore Ravens at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 26, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) against the Baltimore Ravens at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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ORCHARD PARK, NY – DECEMBER 06: DeAndre Hopkins
ORCHARD PARK, NY – DECEMBER 06: DeAndre Hopkins /

14. Houston Texans

The Texans are going to be a work in progress. Houston went out and completely revamped its backfield with the signings of quarterback Brock Osweiler and running back Lamar Miller, moving on from Brian Hoyer and Arian Foster.

While both players could be upgrades, the hype train in Houston needs to pump its brakes. Osweiler has started exactly seven games in his career and was highly inconsistent. Expecting him to dominate immediately in a new offense is akin to a pipe dream. In addition, Miller is a talented back with a short track record. It might not be a revelation having Miller like some believe.

In addition, J.J. Watt’s back surgery is very troubling. Without him at full speed, which he likely won’t truly be until midseason, the Texans have only one player in the front seven worth talking about. Yes, Whitney Mercilus, not Jadeveon Clowney. Mercilus is a terrific player coming off the edge, racking up 12 sacks last season.

The Texans are going to compete in the AFC South and could win it, but it won’t be a cakewalk this time. Houston only beat two teams last season with a winning record (Jets and Bengals) and then got walloped at home by the Kansas City Chiefs in the playoffs.

Record prediction: 9-7

Next: No. 13 Washington Redskins