NFL.com Grades Texans' 2025 Draft Class With B-

Texans aim to support QB C.J. Stroud with influx of offensive talent, but results remain 'mixed'

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Houston Texans' 2025 draft class was graded a B- by NFL.com, with the publication noting the team's efforts to surround quarterback C.J. Stroud with more weapons and protection. However, Stroud's continued struggles have the Texans' offense still searching for answers, and the team will need to address the quarterback's development as well as the offensive line this offseason.

Why it matters

The Texans are in a critical phase of their rebuild, with the future of their young quarterback C.J. Stroud and the overall direction of the offense hanging in the balance. The team's draft strategy and the performance of their rookie class will be key factors in determining if they can get Stroud and the offense back on track.

The details

The Texans spent four of their first five 2025 draft picks on offensive playmakers (WRs Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, RB Woody Marks) and protection (OT Aireontae Ersery) in an effort to support Stroud. However, NFL.com noted the 'mixed' results, as Stroud has struggled mightily since his Offensive Rookie of the Year campaign in 2023. The Texans will need to focus on fixing Stroud's game and continuing to build up the offensive line around him this offseason.

  • In 2023, C.J. Stroud was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.
  • In 2024, Stroud experienced a 'sophomore slump'.
  • In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Texans spent four of their first five picks on offensive playmakers and protection for Stroud.

The players

C.J. Stroud

The Texans' starting quarterback, who was named Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023 but has since struggled mightily, leading the team to focus on surrounding him with more talent in the 2025 draft.

Nick Caserio

The Texans' general manager, who has been tasked with rebuilding the team's offense around Stroud.

DeMeco Ryans

The Texans' head coach, who will be responsible for helping Stroud get his development back on track.

Nick Caley

The Texans' offensive coordinator, who will work closely with Stroud and the rest of the offense.

Aireontae Ersery

The Texans' rookie left tackle, who was one of the team's 2025 draft picks aimed at improving the offensive line.

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What they’re saying

“After 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Year C.J. Stroud experienced a sophomore slump in 2024, Houston clearly entered the 2025 draft with the young quarterback top of mind.”

— Gennaro Filice, NFL.com writer (NFL.com)

“The 24-year-old remains a far cry from the player who took the league by storm three years ago, so it's back to the drawing board this offseason.”

— Gennaro Filice, NFL.com writer (NFL.com)

What’s next

The Texans will need to focus on fixing QB C.J. Stroud's development this offseason, as well as continuing to build up the offensive line to support him. They may also look to add another dynamic running back in free agency to complement their young receiving corps.

The takeaway

The Texans' struggles on offense have put the future of QB C.J. Stroud and the direction of the entire franchise in jeopardy. If they can't get Stroud back on track, it will be difficult for the rest of the team's young offensive talent to reach its full potential.