If there is a path to the Houston Texans winning the 2025 Super Bowl, two things must happen. The first is C.J. Stroud continuing to build on his 2023 season and taking a step forward that eluded the signal caller this past year. Secondly, the defense has to live up to its elite potential and be the consistent headache it has the ability to be.
With this in mind, things are off to a promising start with the Houston defense being the early offseason story for the organization. It was clear within team drills that the defenders were a step ahead and demanding greatness from each other.
A big piece of this is corner Derek Stingley Jr., who continues his impressive ascension to be in the discussion for the best at his position. Stingley has been a consistent problem in drills, no matter who the starting corner is lined up against. It serves as an exciting reminder of the potential of this defense and how lucky Houston is to have made the decision to add the young star.
Texans CB Derek Stingley Jr. Continues to Impress
Houston should expect the secondary to take another step forward in 2025 with the offseason addition of Super Bowl champion C.J. Gardner-Johnson. The veteran has been an important piece of two Philadelphia Eagles teams that made it all the way to the Super Bowl, winning in the second appearance. It is a welcome change that furthers the ceiling of an already impressive defensive roster.
For Stingley, the early offseason performance is a reminder of how elite the corner is capable of being and why Houston's hopes for the 2025 season are well-founded. Watching the defensive talent, it is hard to argue that this team has the needed pieces to go toe-to-toe with Mahomes, Allen, and the rest of a loaded conference.
If there is a path to beating these AFC giants, it is a stifling defense and a shutdown corner that can take away your team's best weapon. That is exactly who Stingley is and why Texans fans should continue to be thrilled about the direction the franchise is heading.