The Houston Texans are looking to bolster their running back depth, especially with Joe Mixon as the featured back. Dameon Pierce hasn't met expectations, leaving Mixon without a reliable backup. The Texans are considering drafting Trevor Etienne, a standout at Georgia and brother of Jaguars' Travis Etienne Jr., as a potential value pick in the later rounds. In the 2024 season, Etienne rushed for 609 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging five yards per carry while sharing carries with Nate Frazier.

Etienne's collegiate career began at Florida, where he also impressed, averaging over 700 yards in two seasons. While he may not become a No. 1 back in the NFL, his addition could provide the necessary relief for Mixon, particularly as teams increasingly rely on running back committees. The Texans can benefit from taking a chance on Etienne, particularly considering their cap constraints.

Coach DeMeco Ryans is focusing on elevating the Houston Texans' performance, particularly their defense, which climbed to sixth in the NFL for yards allowed per game in 2024. Despite allowing slightly more points and touchdowns this season compared to last, the unit showcased significant improvement, particularly against the pass, where they ranked sixth after being 23rd in 2023.

Defensive end Will Anderson Jr. emerged as a key leader for the team in his second season, emphasizing the need for a collective sense of urgency moving forward. Ryans echoed this sentiment, insisting that every player must adopt Anderson's mentality for the team to reach its potential. Evaluations of the defense reveal strong performances from the defensive line, highlighted by Anderson and newcomer Danielle Hunter, who formed the most productive sack duo in the league. The linebackers showed promise but were hampered by injuries, while the secondary improved significantly, led by Derek Stingley Jr.'s breakout season.

The Houston Texans are facing critical decisions following a second consecutive loss in the AFC divisional round. Head Coach DeMeco Ryans emphasized the need for improvement and a rise in standards within the organization. With 25 players entering free agency, including notable names like Stefon Diggs, who suffered a torn ACL this season, the Texans must evaluate their options carefully. Diggs, a significant player during his time on the field, is expected to be a priority if he's able to return following his injury.

Other free agents such as Robert Woods are also in discussions, alongside potential additions to boost the receiving corps. The Texans aim to solidify their roster as they look ahead to the 2025 season, focusing on key positions and retaining vital contributors while exploring the free agency market.

Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon faces uncertainty ahead of the Divisional Round matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs due to an ankle injury. After a strong performance last week against the Los Angeles Chargers, where he rushed for 106 yards and a touchdown, Mixon was added to the injury report and downgraded to limited practice. Despite missing practice on Thursday, NFL insider Ian Rapoport suggested that Mixon has a "very real chance" to play on Saturday.

If Mixon is unable to play, Texans' Dameon Pierce and Dare Ogunbowale are expected to share the workload. Ogunbowale has previously stepped up in Mixon's absence, particularly in the passing game, making him an interesting DFS option. The Chiefs' run defense has been formidable, limiting running backs to an average of 3.78 yards per carry this season, which may temper expectations for Mixon if he does suit up.