After two straight seasons of going 10-7 in the regular season and losing in the divisional round of the playoffs, the Houston Texans front office decided to make significant changes to the roster. The team will look especially different on the offensive side of the ball.
First, offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik was replaced by Nick Caley. When free agency started, the changes continued onto the roster. The offensive line was radically revamped, with Laremy Tunsil, Kenyon Green, and Kendrick Green getting replaced by Laken Tomlinson, Trent Brown, and Cam Robinson.
The wide receiver room will also have different faces. Justin Watson and Braxton Berrios were signed in free agency while the team traded for Christian Kirk from the Jaguars. Yet, they still need one more piece in the rotation.
Stefon Diggs signed a massive three-year, $69 million contract with the New England Patriots. The Texans were smart not to try to beat that offer. Diggs was used more in the slot last season in Houston, and Christian Kirk can easily take over that role in the offense. At the same time, there is a need for a WR2 opposite Nico Collins.
Fortunately for them, an ideal WR for that role remains available on the market. Amari Cooper, who was traded to Diggs' former team, the Bills, during the 2024 season, is currently a free agent. The Texans have over $15 million in cap space per Over the Cap right now and should be able to sign a short-term deal with the five-time Pro Bowler.
Despite being an elite receiver for the last ten seasons, Cooper is still only 30 years old. He had his career-high in yards in 2023 with 1,250 yards and made the Pro Bowl. Last season was a more challenging year for the veteran after his mid-season trade, but he still managed to put up 44 catches, 547 yards, and four touchdowns in ten starts.
It will be hard for the Texans to find a better replacement for Diggs to help get the offense to the next level.