The Houston Texans are rapidly approaching their 2025 season opener, slated for kickoff against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. As the anticipation builds, the team is highlighting players who have donned the number corresponding to the countdown. Today’s focus is on No. 52, currently assigned to Darrell Taylor, a defensive end with potential as a third option in the Texans' pass-rushing rotation. Initially making his mark with the Chicago Bears, Taylor signed a one-year, prove-it deal with Houston to compete alongside established stars Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter.

With significant roster adjustments and the need for depth in the defensive line, Taylor's performance will be crucial. His ability to secure a solid spot in the rotation could hinge on his ability to impress during training camp and preseason games. The Texans aim to leverage their defensive strengths, and Taylor’s contributions will be closely monitored as the season approaches.

Darrell Taylor signed a one-year contract worth $5.25 million with the Houston Texans, marking his transition from the Chicago Bears, where he recorded 32 tackles and three sacks last season. After being drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Taylor has shown consistent performance with a total of 24.5 sacks and 123 tackles over 65 games in his career. This move to Houston represents his third franchise in the NFL and could provide him with the opportunity to further establish himself as a key player in the Texans' defensive lineup.

The 2024 season proved disheartening for the Chicago Bears, concluding with a disappointing 5-12 record. The franchise's high hopes for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams turned into a tumultuous journey, prompting the search for a new head coach to guide the team forward. Central to the upcoming offseason will be the challenge of managing free agency, with thirteen players on the verge of unrestricted free agency. General Manager Ryan Poles faces critical decisions on which of these players to prioritize.

Among the top candidates for re-signing is veteran receiver Keenan Allen. Although he may not be at his peak, Allen's experience could provide stability as Williams continues to develop. Offensive lineman Teven Jenkins also represents a significant consideration despite his injury concerns. If Jenkins can agree to a performance-based contract, he could be valuable. Furthermore, long snapper Patrick Scales, approaching his 37th birthday, should remain a priority given his role in the team's special teams.

Other players worthy of a re-signing effort include DeAndre Carter, who offers special teams versatility, and Darrell Taylor, who has shown promise as a situational pass rusher since joining the Bears. Running back Travis Homer also adds depth, particularly given the fragility often seen in the position.

On the other hand, several players may be let go, including Coleman Shelton and Larry Borom, who have failed to impress. Veteran tight end Marcedes Lewis, once a stabilizing presence, may also be deemed expendable as younger leaders emerge. The Bears face a pivotal offseason, requiring strategic choices to build a more competitive team.

The Seattle Seahawks secured a narrow 6-3 victory over the Chicago Bears, a game that highlighted their defensive prowess while their offense struggled significantly. Despite the win, the Seahawks displayed undisciplined play, accumulating procedural penalties and a personal foul by wide receiver DK Metcalf. Their offensive output was dismal, managing only 265 yards and failing to score a touchdown, marking one of their worst performances in over a year. The game was ultimately decided by a pivotal interception from Riq Woolen, sealing the win against a Bears team that has been on a downward spiral.

The Seahawks' path to the playoffs hinges on their performance against the Los Angeles Rams in the upcoming week. Quarterback Geno Smith had a lackluster outing, completing 17 of 23 passes for 160 yards, but he managed to avoid interceptions, which have plagued him this season. He will be looking to improve as he heads to So-Fi Stadium, where playoff implications are at stake.

On the other side, the Bears' offense was marred by issues, with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams struggling under pressure, resulting in seven sacks. The Bears have now lost ten consecutive games against the Seahawks, and their season has been disappointing, with a lack of offensive production evident throughout the year. General manager Ryan Poles acknowledged the team's slow starts as a key issue, attributing it to problems that began in training camp. As the season wraps up, both teams face crucial matchups ahead, with the Seahawks still holding onto slim playoff hopes.