Houston Texans (Last season: 5-11, t-3rd)
Players to watch: Outside defenders
It's hard to pin it on one player, but collectively the Texans need production from their ends. This includes needing immediate help from their two first-round draft picks. Defensive end Jason Babin and cornerback Dunta Robinson are the keys to developing this young defense. Can Babin and the D-line create enough of a rush to help Robinson make big plays and take teams out of their passing game? That is what Texans coach Dom Capers likes to do.
Burning question: Is the third year the charm?
How much has this expansion team learned in its first two seasons in the NFL? The Texans must improve their protection of franchise quarterback David Carr. If the offensive line struggles for much longer, Carr won't have a bright future. He has taken a real beating over the past two seasons. Capers and the Texans have made an effort to put together a group that can protect Carr better than it has in the past, which shouldn't be hard to do.
Bottom line:
The Texans have gotten better, but they have the misfortune of playing in one of the most competitive divisions in football. Coach Capers and the organization are moving in the right direction, and the team has the full support of the city of Houston. But they are not ready to move into the second or third position.
