Battle Red Blog - All PostsThe Roller Coaster That Is Texans Fandomhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47249/battleredblog_fave.png2024-03-18T08:00:00-05:00http://www.battleredblog.com/rss/current/2024-03-18T08:00:00-05:002024-03-18T08:00:00-05:00Poll: Best Houston Texans off-season move so far?
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<p>An off-season to remember - but what will be the defining event?</p> <p id="Nc7y63">The <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Houston Texans</a> have already had quite the memorable off-season and the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> is still over a month away. Since the end of the 2023 season, general manager Nick Caserio and head coach Demeco Ryans have managed to sculpt an AFC Division Champion team into something even more formidable. </p>
<p id="AP4WG8">And, they’re not done yet. </p>
<p id="rmSob6">The re-signing of offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, who was rumored to have head coaching offers with other clubs, laid a solid foundation. This ensures that what Slowik started with franchise quarterback C.J. Stroud last season will evolve further in 2024. </p>
<p id="pwLS2t">Keeping quality people around continued with new contracts for tight end Dalton Schultz, kicker Kaimi Fairbairn, wide receiver Noah Brown and cornerback Desmond King.</p>
<p id="VZeN41">Then, once free agency fired up, Caserio and crew <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/2024/3/11/24097699/houston-texans-sign-cb-jeff-okudah-to-a-one-year-deal">signed cornerback</a> Jeff Okudah, punter Tommy Townsend, <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/2024/3/11/24098032/texans-sign-linebacker-azeez-al-shaair">linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair</a>, defensive tackle Folorunso Fatukasi and <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/2024/3/11/24097715/houston-texans-sign-tennessee-titans-dl-denico-autry">defensive end Denico Autry</a>. </p>
<p id="a7JjXg">Then they <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/houston-texans-news/2024/3/12/24098543/trade-houston-texans-acquire-cincinnati-bengals-rb-joe-mixon">traded for running back</a> Joe Mixon and signed him to a tidy little contract extension. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sports Sunday segment on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Texans?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Texans</a> additions of Danielle Hunter and Joe Mixon and a Tank Dell update <a href="https://twitter.com/Joe_MainMixon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Joe_MainMixon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KPRC2?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KPRC2</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KPRC2RandyMc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KPRC2RandyMc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KPRC2Ari?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KPRC2Ari</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NFLFreeAgency?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NFLFreeAgency</a> <a href="https://t.co/21lYZu4MyR">pic.twitter.com/21lYZu4MyR</a></p>— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/AaronWilson_NFL/status/1769664548133302643?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2024</a>
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<p id="KYn7Xg">All this lead up to <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/2024/3/12/24099047/breaking-texans-acquire-former-vikings-pass-rusher-danielle-hunter-on-two-year-deal">the blockbuster deal of free agency</a>: signing EDGE Danielle Hunter. </p>
<p id="wX4yyw">While all this happened, H-Town did lose EDGE Jonathan Greenard, running back Devin Singletary, linebacker Blake Cashman, D-linemen Malik Collins and Sheldon Rankins. </p>
<p id="10MMCx">However, it’s obvious this roster had an upgrade regardless of the losses. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Could <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/texans?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#texans</a> Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr be the best edge duo in the NFL this season??? Let's take a deeper look on <a href="https://twitter.com/nflnetwork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nflnetwork</a> <a href="https://t.co/fMeHqz9RDC">pic.twitter.com/fMeHqz9RDC</a></p>— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesPalmerTV/status/1767950084816150816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a>
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<p id="haxxSN">The only real head-scratcher is bringing back former Bill O’Brien draft pick Lonnie Johnson Jr. </p>
<p id="ShBzdV"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39584955/texans-2024-free-agency-tracker-offseason-moves-signings"><em><strong>ESPN.com</strong></em></a></p>
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<p id="DXiA7f"><strong>Lonnie Johnson Jr., CB</strong></p>
<p id="MVmchH">The deal lands Johnson in Houston for one year for $2 million.</p>
<p id="M8USEz"><strong>What it means:</strong> The Texans are adding to special teams. Johnson Jr. played 76% of the Saints’ special team snaps and 15% on defense. Houston drafted him as a second-round pick in 2020 under former coach Bill O’Brien. He has a career 192 tackles and four interceptions.</p>
<p id="rwCLCq"><strong>What’s the risk:</strong> There isn’t much risk since it’s a cheap, one-year deal. If Johnson can’t fit into Ryans’ program, the Texans can release him at the end of training camp.</p>
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<p id="KK89mo">Hopefully he’s matured a lot since his last stint in Battle Red. Or, they cut him before pre-season...</p>
<p id="MsfnSb">That brings us to the question of the day: </p>
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<p id="rNzIyL">Who did you pick and why? </p>
https://www.battleredblog.com/2024/3/18/24104642/poll-best-houston-texans-off-season-move-so-farMike Bullock2024-03-18T06:00:00-05:002024-03-18T06:00:00-05:00Texans News: High marks earned after Vikings trade
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<figcaption>Kareem Elgazzar/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK</figcaption>
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<p>Your one-stop shop for Houston Texans, local sports, and news from around the league for Monday, March 18, 2024.</p> <p id="8LAuVS"><a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/"><strong>Houston Texans</strong></a><strong> News</strong></p>
<p id="NiAP6S"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39737620/source-vikings-get-2nd-1st-round-pick-trade-texans">Vikings acquire second 1st-round pick in trade</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="X0G0yK"><a href="https://texanswire.usatoday.com/2024/03/15/2024-nfl-draft-texans-pick-swap-with-vikings-earns-b/">2024 NFL draft: Texans’ pick swap with Vikings earns B+</a> (Texans Wire)</p>
<p id="oRimgm"><a href="https://www.profootballnetwork.com/who-won-vikings-texans-pre-draft-trade-nfl-draft-trade-value-chart/">Who Won the Vikings-Texans Trade? An NFL Draft Trade Value Chart Helps Us Sort the Deal Out</a> (Pro Football Network)</p>
<p id="2dKd12"><a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/2024/3/15/24101805/minnesota-vikings-acquire-second-first-round-pick-2024-nfl-draft-houston-texans">Vikings acquire second first-round pick in 2024 NFL Draft from Houston Texans</a> (Daily Norseman)</p>
<p id="qiF1Nn"><a href="https://abc13.com/why-houston-texans-trade-out-of-1st-round-nfl-draft-joe-mixon-extension-minnesota-vikings/14529349/">Houston Texans trade: AFC South champs exit NFL Draft’s 1st round in deal with Minnesota Vikings a day after Joe Mixon extended</a> (ABC 13 Houston)</p>
<p id="xzxp0J"><a href="https://www.click2houston.com/sports/2024/03/17/texans-tank-dell-back-running-looks-sharp-hasnt-lost-a-beat-looks-10-times-faster-way-ahead-of-schedule/">Texans’ Tank Dell back running, looks sharp: ‘Hasn’t lost a beat, looks 10 times</a> (Click2Houston)</p>
<p id="EINcGe"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39744955/jets-texans-had-interest-keenan-allen-trade-bears">Jets, Texans had interest in new Bears WR Allen</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="sJ5vyN"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-news"><strong>NFL News</strong></a></p>
<p id="bIbyJa"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39753103/source-browns-reach-deal-ex-ravens-qb-tyler-huntley">Source: Browns add Huntley as 4th QB on roster</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="aV1puh"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39753615/patriots-ex-vikings-wr-kj-osborn-agree-deal">Source: Pats, ex-Vikes WR Osborn agree to deal</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="fA4oXM"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39747346/sources-bears-trading-qb-justin-fields-steelers">Bears trade Fields to Steelers for conditional pick</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="6hWWWD"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39746911/seattle-seahawks-sign-linebacker-jerome-baker-agents-say">Seahawks land LB Baker with one year, $7M deal</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="MTeZZe"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39741845/tyron-smith-set-leave-cowboys-jets">Sources: Ex-Cowboys OT Smith signing with Jets</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="3xGpzj"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39739644/sources-steelers-trading-qb-kenny-pickett-eagles">Steelers move on from Pickett with Eagles trade</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="c3Ckep"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39740133/sources-cowboys-release-leighton-vander-esch-michael-gallup">Cowboys release LB Vander Esch, WR Gallup</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="HNHPiY"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/story/_/id/39633029/2024-nfl-free-agency-grades-signings-trades-latest-best-worst-deals-draft-outlook">Grading free agency’s biggest deals</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="S53g2i"><strong>Houston & Collegiate Sports</strong></p>
<p id="FPaq44"><a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/2024/3/16/24103601/listen-kiss-of-death-episode-110-regular-season-game-67-rockets-defeat-cavaliers">LISTEN: Kiss Of Death, Episode 110: Regular Season Game 67 - Rockets defeat Cavaliers</a> (The Dream Shake)</p>
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https://www.battleredblog.com/battle-red-newswire-houston-texans-news-notes-links/2024/3/18/24104595/texans-news-high-marks-vikings-trade-draftJeremy Brener2024-03-15T15:30:00-05:002024-03-15T15:30:00-05:00Houston Texans Post-Trade Seven Round Mock Draft
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<figcaption>Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Houston’s frustrating but long-term trade mixes up the draft board.</p> <p id="RakXyJ">Well, there goes two months of watching first round picks film...</p>
<p id="BOvcSl">The <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Houston Texans</a> go rogue and trade out of a extremely talented first round. This trade removes them from contention of getting a top-end talent. Instead, it allows them to stock up on the draft next year and still pick a solid player early this year. Mainly, this helps the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> eventually trade up to get into the top five picks for a quarterback. </p>
<p id="yOef09">That’s great...for Minnesota. For Houston, it means no chance at a top-end cornerback alongside Derek Stingley Jr. It also indicates Houston won’t pursue a first-round wide receiver to take over for Nico Collins. As well, considering the addition of Danielle Hunter, they won’t be in the market for a defensive end like Chop Robinson or even Jared Verse. </p>
<p id="QqtfEj">So, where does that leave the Texans in the market? Well, frankly...it’s best player available. I have 40 players with a first round grade. Compare that to last year where I think I had 22. Meaning, this year’s draft has a wealth of talent. </p>
<p id="WuNSI5">Right now, the offense will return 10 starters plus the addition of running back Joe Mixon. Defense has seen whole changes up front with re-signings in the secondary. The roster needs include starting defensive tackles, at least one starting secondary player, and a lot of depth/backups on offense. </p>
<p id="mUc2FU">With an early pick in the second round, Texans will be shopping in the second tier of cornerbacks, second tier of defensive lineman, third tier of wide outs, or can get the top safety in the draft. Here’s what I predict they’ll do in their seven rounds. </p>
<h2 id="TxokK5"><strong>Round 2, Pick 42: T’Vondre Sweat, DT - Texas</strong></h2>
<p id="smxh3x">Houston trading Maliek Collins and not resigning Sheldon Rankins leaves a massive hole at the three-technique on the defensive line. Sweat slots right in to this position </p>
<p id="0cwmkK">Sweat comes in at a hulking 6’4”, 365 pounds. He’s continually improved his footwork, hand usage, and pad level throughout college, which were his main weaknesses from his junior year at Texas. There truly isn’t another player in this draft that can match his size, strength, and quickness. He’s by far a better pass rusher than teams give him credit for. You truly can’t leave him on a one-vs-one matchup with a smaller center...which means that the defensive ends have less opportunity to be double teamed. </p>
<p id="s836Hu">The main gripe with Sweat is his three-down capability and conditioning. The focus will be conditioning rather than his playing weight, though if he loses a few pounds and plays a bit more that’s a great combination. </p>
<p id="ya3XE1">The addition of Sweat bolsters the interior of the defensive line and creates a devastating combination with Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. </p>
<h2 id="QzwKI5"><strong>Round 2, Pick 59: Edgerrin Cooper, LB - Texas A&M</strong></h2>
<p id="eT0uyZ">If either WR Ja’Lynn Polk or Xavier Legette are here, it will be tough for Houston to pass on adding another weapon on offense. Particularly, the talent drop off within the WR class is right around here at the end of the second round. </p>
<p id="MDExOk">However, Cooper screams “DeMeco Ryans’ ideal linebacker”. He’s a player this staff will fall in love with. </p>
<p id="NbYc4R">Edgerrin Cooper is a fast, downhill, and tough as nails linebacker that will round out the group with rising star Christian Harris and new free agent signing Azeez Al-Shaair. </p>
<p id="3hccpl">Cooper’s own model is <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">San Francisco 49ers</a> linebacker Frank Warner; a player who developed and become an elite LB under DeMeco Ryans’ defense and tutelage. </p>
<p id="iBxge0">He’s also confirmed to be meeting with the Texans in person, which makes the potential of this happening all the more alluring. </p>
<h2 id="w93E4x"><strong>Round 3, Pick 86: Max Melton, CB - Rutgers</strong></h2>
<p id="trHC5n">Yes, that’s three defensive picks in a row. Houston addresses all three aspects of the defense by day two and can look to add depth on offense for the rest of the draft. </p>
<p id="WD16Q3">Texans sign the best cornerback remaining on the board who can play both inside and outside. There’s very few CBs that can naturally play both, but it’s a testament to Melton’s talent that he already possess the ability. </p>
<p id="0KZOHk">Melton is highly instinctive, has great straight line speed, and isn’t afraid to play press coverage. He has experience guarding elite receivers as a three-year starter. </p>
<p id="Ihq5gx">In the third round, you’re looking for contributions. Melton will take over for Desmond King Jr. on the inside or compete with newly signed cornerback Jeff Okudah. </p>
<p id="pTXUkz">Oh, and Melton ran a 4.39 40-yard dash at the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine">NFL Combine</a>. Sounds good? </p>
<h2 id="15HT47"><strong>Round 4, Pick 122: Bucky Irving, RB - Oregon</strong></h2>
<p id="5EUBdD">Irving is projected in the third round in some mocks, but due to his size I believe he’ll fall into the fourth. Many of the RB-needy teams quenched their thirst this hectic and talented free agent running back market. </p>
<p id="40Rm7d">While Irving isn’t built to be a starting back in the league, he is probably the most dynamic player in this class. Irving can catch, has elite play strength, and scheme versatility. I see him as a Nyheim Hines at the next level; a guy who averages more catches than rushes and is a chess piece on offense. </p>
<p id="ogUifq">Irving will be a fantastic addition and new set of skills that Houston honestly hasn’t ever had. </p>
<h2 id="g6CScD"><strong>Round 4, Pick 126: Javon Foster, OT - Missouri</strong></h2>
<p id="yhPbrt">Until Houston adds two offensive tackles in free agency, this pick is dedicated to a backup tackle. Previous iterations of this pick have been <a href="https://www.onefootdown.com">Notre Dame</a>’s Blake Fisher and Texas’ Christian Jones. Both of these picks are high floor, low-ceiling prospects who could sub in sooner rather than later if/when Laremy Tunsil or Tytus Howard go down. </p>
<p id="W2pVCv">You’re telling me the Texans can take a First-Team All-SEC tackle in the fourth round? Sign me up. Three year starter at Missouri at left tackle, Foster is a ideal physical prospect who needs training on the finer points of his technique. He’s had plenty of reps with over 2,700 snaps in his career. </p>
<p id="ABdqr6">Foster is gifted with long arms, quick initial step, and a physicality at the position necessary to succeed at the next level. Give Foster a year or two behind Tunsil and he’ll be ready to take over the role moving forward. </p>
<h2 id="MduMlZ"><strong>Round 6, Pick 188: Jalen Green, DE - James Madison</strong></h2>
<p id="zOhPHp">Personally, this is a tough one and may change. This pick is the second part of the trade back trade with Minnesota. Honestly, they should have gotten a fifth instead of a sixth here, but at this point I’m so upset that I’m just blinded. </p>
<p id="Cr4xI0">What would open up my eyes is if Houston selects Jalen Green. Green is possibly the most befuddling prospect in the entire draft. For starters, he led the FBS in sacks with FIFTEEN AND A HALF through nine games. Why only nine? He suffered a severe knee injury that ended his season. </p>
<p id="XPpvXe">The star is a bit shorter and lighter at 6’1”, 245 pounds. His menu of pass rushing moves is almost as long as first round pick Laiatu Latu from UCLA. I’ve seen a bull to rip, a spin move, a hand grabbing-swipe move, and an up-and-under move. He’s an artist with a high motor and knack for making plays. </p>
<p id="ynvarV">At his best, he’s a third down pass rushing specialist from the five or nine technique. They don’t make many pass rushers this small, but Houston takes a bet on the skillset and adds a depth piece. </p>
<h2 id="fZCZFt"><strong>Round 7, Pick 247: Tanner McLachlan, TE - Arizona</strong></h2>
<p id="a97l5T">Texans select a low-end depth piece at tight end with McLachlan. He’s the insurance policy Houston needs while Teagan Quitoriano recovers from season-ending groin and oblique surgery. </p>
<p id="7vOD74">McLachlan is an in-line tight end who catches the ball with his hands and has the ability to flip his shoulders and turn up field. He’s not a finesse route runner and instead finds openings in zones. </p>
<p id="4X8UV3">His tape against a smaller <a href="https://www.houseofsparky.com">Arizona State</a> defense was fun to watch as he willingly used his 6’5 frame to punish their defense, convert several first downs, and score in the red zone. </p>
<p id="OMh8Hc">McLachlan won’t wow you athletically, but he has the material to be a versatile special teams, blocking, and third down tight end in the league. </p>
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https://www.battleredblog.com/2024/3/15/24099112/houston-texans-post-trade-seven-round-mock-draftKenneth L.2024-03-15T08:54:59-05:002024-03-15T08:54:59-05:00TRADE! Texans move out of Round 1 in NFL Draft with Vikings
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<figcaption>Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Houston Texans had the No. 23 pick, but now it is being traded to the Minnesota Vikings.</p> <p id="rLtK5H">The <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Houston Texans</a> draft plans are changing, <a href="https://discord.com/channels/968748573208506408/969729843489034300/1218193621862584350">according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport.</a></p>
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<p id="LRlgtP">A Draft Trade!!</p>
<p id="S47i5K">The #Vikings and #Texans have agreed to terms on a major deal in advance of the draft, per me and @TomPelissero, landing Minnesota another 1.</p>
<p id="cnaBJb">— Minnesota gets No. 23 and No. 232.</p>
<p id="4keIO7">— Houston gets No. 42, 188 and a 2025 2nd rounder.</p>
<p id="sOoBhN">MIN moves up, HOU collects.</p>
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<p id="tchMe4">Simply put, the Texans are moving from Round 1 to Round 2, and from Round 7 to Round 6. But, the team is also stockpiling assets for next year, acquiring an additional second-round pick.</p>
<p id="yytg4i">While that means the Texans won’t pick until early in the second round, they now have two seconds this year and next. It appears that general manager Nick Caserio is happy enough with the team’s free agency haul to not need a first-round pick this year.</p>
<p id="ldut5S">The <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> is set for April 25-27.</p>
https://www.battleredblog.com/houston-texans-news/2024/3/15/24101771/trade-houston-texans-move-out-of-round-1-in-nfl-draft-with-minnesota-vikingsJeremy Brener2024-03-15T06:00:00-05:002024-03-15T06:00:00-05:00Texans News: Danielle Hunter talks J.J. Watt’s No. 99
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<p>Your one-stop shop for Houston Texans, local sports, and news from around the league for Friday, March 15, 2024.</p> <p id="8LAuVS"><a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/"><strong>Houston Texans</strong></a><strong> News</strong></p>
<p id="vAIVcH"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39733529/texans-give-joe-mixon-3-year-27m-extension-sources-say">Texans give Joe Mixon 3-year, $27M extension, sources say</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="7dsxkZ"><a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/cincinnati-bengals-trading-rb-joe-mixon-to-houston-texans">Cincinnati Bengals trading RB Joe Mixon to Houston Texans</a> (NFL.com)</p>
<p id="8avyzK"><a href="https://texanswire.usatoday.com/lists/5-takeaways-from-joe-mixons-texans-press-conference/">2024 NFL free agency: 5 takeaways from Joe Mixon’s press conference</a> (Texans Wire)</p>
<p id="MEH43b"><a href="https://www.houstonchronicle.com/texas-sports-nation/texans/article/texans-arik-armstead-defensive-tackle-options-19019985.php">Houston Texans: DT options after Arik Armstead trade is quashed</a> (Houston Chronicle)</p>
<p id="qIvUKB"><a href="https://www.chron.com/sports/texans/article/maliek-collins-trade-texans-18971556.php">Maliek Collins trade sets Texans up for big D-line addition</a> (Chron)</p>
<p id="wrkz53"><a href="https://texanswire.usatoday.com/lists/5-takeaways-from-danielle-hunters-texans-press-conference/">2024 NFL free agency: Danielle Hunter’s first Texans press conference</a> (Texans Wire)</p>
<p id="Q8wCeH"><a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/texans/news/houston-texans-danielle-hunter-pays-homage-jj-watt-legend-changes-number">‘That’s J.J.’s Number’: Danielle Hunter Pays Homage To Texans Legend</a> (Sports Illustrated) </p>
<p id="sJ5vyN"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-news"><strong>NFL News</strong></a></p>
<p id="hUdTMr"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39732640/seahawks-trading-commanders-qb-sam-howell-sources-say">Seahawks acquire QB Howell as backup to Smith</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="FmfqmV"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39733551/police-investigating-alleged-2017-sexual-assault-dak-prescott">Police look into alleged sexual assault by Prescott</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="2pQ8i8"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39735346/chiefs-sign-hollywood-brown-one-year-deal-sources-say">Sources: Chiefs to sign WR Brown to 1-year deal</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="FiiHzp"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39733201/jaguars-sign-ex-49ers-dl-arik-armstead-3-year-deal">Source: Jaguars to sign ex-49ers DL Armstead</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="RA10pK"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39733388/eagles-saquon-barkley-forever-grateful-giants-fans">Eagles’ Barkley ‘forever grateful’ for Giants fans</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="H7C8sJ"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39733529/texans-give-joe-mixon-3-year-27m-extension-sources-say">Texans give Mixon 3-year extension, sources say</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="kLO1o9"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39733511/curtis-samuel-agrees-3-year-24m-deal-bills">Source: Samuel heads to Buffalo on 3-year deal</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="npHtvA"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39733953/eagles-signing-lb-devin-white-one-year-deal">Sources: Eagles signing LB White to 1-year deal</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="mbDCTd"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/story/_/id/39716609/2024-nfl-free-agency-ranking-best-remaining-unsigned-players-available">Ranking the best remaining free agents</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<h2 id="R0Aw6m"><strong>Houston & Collegiate Sports</strong></h2>
<p id="dJAG7J"><a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/2024/3/14/24101445/houston-rockets-wash-the-washington-wizards-135-119-jalen-green-amen-thompson-kyle-kuzma-nba">Rockets wash the Wizards 135-119</a> (The Dream Shake)</p>
<p id="5rBQsF"></p>
https://www.battleredblog.com/battle-red-newswire-houston-texans-news-notes-links/2024/3/15/24101487/texans-news-danielle-hunter-talks-jj-wattJeremy Brener2024-03-14T11:00:00-05:002024-03-14T11:00:00-05:00Value of Things: Texans Running Back Swap
<figure>
<img alt="Syndication: USA TODAY" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ba92E9zj5CNQlIbrk6lCtLwF6uE=/0x0:6621x4414/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73206911/usa_today_22759434.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Sam Greene / USA TODAY NETWORK</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Trying to look at the basics.</p> <p id="qigew0">You can make yourself go blind looking at all of the additions and subtractions in free agency. That is particularly true when you treat your roster and contracts the way that Nick Caserio and the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Houston Texans</a> do. They do more short-term deals than any other team in the league. In order to simplify things, we will look at each position one by one where there has actually been a significant change. Did the Texans upgrade or downgrade the position with the swap?</p>
<p id="ZaoxUT">Naturally, there can’t always be an upgrade. Sometimes a player is just too expensive to replace with a comparable player. Your hope is that you can cover those deficits through quality depth or simply hit on something in the draft. With the draft weeks away we can systematically go through each position one by one and hit on a pretty accurate draft wish list based on what we see here.</p>
<p id="K3PPN3">The offensive side of the ball is easy. The entire starting offensive line is under contract and coming back. The starting tight end and all of the wide receivers are currently under contract. C.J. Stroud is also obviously coming back. That leaves the running back position as the only place where a significant change has taken place.</p>
<h2 id="7Oy0O2">Basic Numbers</h2>
<p id="YBiyek">Devin Singletary 2023: 216 carries, 898 yards, 4 TD30 catches, 193 tards, 0 TD<br>Devin Singletary Career: 888 carries, 4,649 yards, 175 catches, 1,164 yards, 4 TD</p>
<p id="jf4SMx">Joe Mixon 2023: 257 carries, 1,039 yards, 9 TD, 52 catches, 376 yards, 3 TD<br>Joe Mixon Career: 1571 carries, 6,412 yards, 49 TD, 283 catches, 2,139 yards, 13 TD</p>
<p id="R3iVnG">All analysis is like peeling an onion. The subsequent layers can make you tear up. Mixon has been more productive in both 2023 and his career over the course of the first layer. However, he has nearly twice the carries and twice the receptions. That can be a good or bad thing as you never know how much any player has in the tank. The Giants signed Singletary for three years. The Texans have Mixon for one. So, the level of risk is probably about the same.</p>
<p id="9Kl7Dd">Rate statistics and the more complex numbers often tell a different story. However, it is a layer to the onion we have to get through no matter how painful. Mixon is a better volume back, but is he really an improvement on a per carry or per reception/target basis?</p>
<h2 id="qG94l1">Rate Statistics</h2>
<p id="FThAhH">Singletary 2023: 4.2 YPA, 78.9 catch%, 4.61 YPT, 47.7 RSuccess%, 36.8 PSuccess%<br>Singletary Career: 4.6 YPA, 81.3 catch%, 4.77 YPT, 48.8 RSuccess%, 45.9 PSuccess%</p>
<p id="zq32YK">Mixon 2023: 4.0 YPA, 81.3 catch%, 5.88 YPT, 49.4 RSuccess%, 54.7 PSuccess%<br>Mixon Career: 4.1 YPA 81.6 catch%, 6.16 YPT, 47.8 RSuccess%, 50.7 PSuccess%</p>
<p id="2fJCvG">Again, nothing is ever clean. Singletary has been far superior in terms of yards per carry while Mixon has been much more proficient in the passing game. The end result is likely something close to a wash on a net yards per touch basis. That stat includes total targets and not just catches plus carries.</p>
<p id="bqkVwI">However, to satisfy your curiosity, Mixon has a career 4.46 net yards per touch average. Singletary comes in at 4.66. While that looks better we should remember how each has been used throughout their career. Singletary is not necessarily a change of pace back, but he has lived in passing offenses his whole career. Mixon has been used as a more traditional back throughout that time. Depending on what Bobby Slowik envisions for his offense, that might be the better fit.</p>
<h2 id="3NWtdO">Per 15 Games</h2>
<p id="Z14evP">Singletary: 171 carries, 779 yards, 4 TD, 34 catches, 224 yards, 1 TD<br>Mixon: 243 carries, 992 yards, 8 TD, 44 catches, 331 yards, 2 TD</p>
<p id="x2XFKB">Are touchdowns portable? That depends on who you ask. I think there is something about certain players having a knack for getting int he end zone and the Texans were sorely lacking last year at the running back position. I would be remiss to point out that Singletary has played in 95 percent of his possible games. Mixon has played in just under 80 percent of his possible games in his career. So, if we were to remake a typical season for them we would come to the following.</p>
<p id="zwqqK1">Singletary: 182 carries, 831 yards, 4 TD, 36 catches, 239 yards, 1 TD<br>Mixon: 227 carries, 925 yards, 7 TD, 41 catches, 316 yards, 2 TD</p>
<p id="o3MmKa">That makes these guys a lot closer. We simply added one game to Singletary’s ledger and took one game away from Mixon. The contracts ended up being pretty close in terms of dollars per season, but Mixon will make a little more. It would seem at first blush that he’s worth a little more, but it would also appear that while he is better, the Texans can still add to their running back room between now and training camp.</p>
https://www.battleredblog.com/2024/3/14/24100129/value-of-things-texans-running-back-swapVBallRetired2024-03-14T06:00:00-05:002024-03-14T06:00:00-05:00Texans News: Maliek Collins traded after Danielle Hunter signing
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<img alt="NFL: Cleveland Browns at Houston Texans" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/1Ju87LAW2bUY02H8mNnqsbax9F0=/0x62:2263x1571/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73206143/usa_today_22171739.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Your one-stop shop for Houston Texans, local sports, and news from around the league for Thursday, March 14, 2024.</p> <p id="8LAuVS"><a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/"><strong>Houston Texans</strong></a><strong> News</strong></p>
<p id="J9k1PP"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39723715/source-texans-trade-maliek-collins-49ers-7th-round-pick">Source: Texans trade DT Collins to 49ers for pick</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="m1ZLFq"><a href="https://www.chron.com/sports/texans/article/maliek-collins-trade-texans-18971556.php">Maliek Collins trade sets Texans up for big D-line addition</a> (Chron)</p>
<p id="oD0Mf0"><a href="https://www.startribune.com/vikings-star-edge-rusher-danielle-hunter-reaches-deal-with-houston-texans/600350593/">Danielle Hunter signs with Houston Texans, hitting the road with a two-year deal</a> (Star Tribune)</p>
<p id="dYNOUP"><a href="https://texanswire.usatoday.com/2024/03/13/j-j-watt-endorses-texans-signing-de-danielle-hunter-on-social-media/">J.J. Watt endorses Texans signing DE Danielle Hunter on social media</a> (Texans Wire)</p>
<p id="A64dGy"><a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/cincinnati-bengals-trading-rb-joe-mixon-to-houston-texans">Cincinnati Bengals trading RB Joe Mixon to Houston Texans</a> (NFL.com)</p>
<p id="i1iXKh"><a href="https://texanswire.usatoday.com/2024/03/13/2024-nfl-free-agency-texans-have-around-21-million-salary-cap/">2024 NFL free agency: Texans have around $21 million salary cap</a> (Texans Wire)</p>
<p id="AjxfXF"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39723715/source-texans-trade-maliek-collins-49ers-7th-round-pick">Source: Texans trade DT Collins to 49ers for pick</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="sJ5vyN"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-news"><strong>NFL News</strong></a></p>
<p id="E86nNV"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39725390/titans-snag-wr-calvin-ridley-4-year-92m-deal">Titans add WR Ridley on $92M deal; Rudolph, too</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="EZzPZU"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39725545/source-commanders-signing-star-lb-bobby-wagner">Source: Commanders signing star LB Wagner</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="OQ5EPh"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39724646/sources-raiders-releasing-jimmy-garoppolo-hunter-renfrow">Raiders release Garoppolo, Renfrow to save $19M</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="wwfStq"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39725548/qb-baker-mayfield-happy-deal-buccaneers-worked-out">QB Mayfield happy deal with Bucs ‘worked out’</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="7TiLHP"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39723953/chargers-cut-wr-mike-williams-save-20m-salary-cap">Chargers release WR Williams, save $20M on cap</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="9kxuet"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39724593/defamation-suit-cowboys-jerry-jones-tossed-again">Defamation suit vs. Cowboys’ Jones tossed again</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="McvC4G"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39723574/jets-trading-ravens-rt-morgan-moses-sources-say">Jets trading for Ravens RT Moses, sources say</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="egaiOp"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/story/_/id/39704623/2024-qb-best-signings-trades-russell-wilson-steelers-baker-mayfield-bucs-mac-jones-jaguars">Making sense of 3 intriguing QB moves</a> (ESPN.com)</p>
<p id="S53g2i"><strong>Houston & Collegiate Sports</strong></p>
<p id="pZhA87"><a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/2024/3/13/24095344/how-can-the-houston-rockets-improve-next-season-alperen-sengun-cooper-flagg-brandon-ingram-nba">How can the Rockets improve next season?</a> (The Dream Shake)</p>
<p id="5rBQsF"></p>
https://www.battleredblog.com/battle-red-newswire-houston-texans-news-notes-links/2024/3/14/24100141/houston-texans-news-maliek-collins-traded-after-danielle-hunter-signingJeremy Brener2024-03-13T11:59:28-05:002024-03-13T11:59:28-05:00BREAKING NEWS: Texans trade DT Maliek Collins to 49ers
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<img alt="NFL: AFC Wild Card Round-Cleveland Browns at Houston Texans" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fRuPsl8tkAHSzw-YLwJra0GlJ0w=/114x0:4470x2904/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73204280/usa_today_22290290.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Maliek Collins is moving from the Houston Texans to the San Francisco 49ers.</p> <p id="SwPHkK">The <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Houston Texans</a> continue to be active on the trade market.</p>
<p id="EUS2bk"><a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1767953025945977328?s=20">According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter</a>, a veteran defensive lineman is saying goodbye to the Space City.</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="2EgJJV">Trade: the Texans are trading defensive tackle Maliek Collins to the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a>, per source.</p>
<p id="GvzAjF">Compensation update: 49ers are trading a 7th-round pick to the Texans for Maliek Collins, per source.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="8QcFpX">Collins, who turns 29 next month, has been the Texans’ starting defensive tackle for the past three seasons. However, with Danielle Hunter, Denico Autry and Foley Fatukasi coming in through free agency, Collins’ services aren’t need anymore in Houston.</p>
<p id="Fa2R7h">Now, he joins the 49ers, who lost in overtime in the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> against Patrick Mahomes and the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com">Kansas City Chiefs</a>. Perhaps adding Collins will boost their defensive line and help the Niners moving forward.</p>
<p id="nSxAon">The trade between the two teams cannot become official until the new league year begins at 3 p.m. CT today.</p>
https://www.battleredblog.com/houston-texans-news/2024/3/13/24099706/houston-texans-trade-dt-maliek-collins-san-francisco-49ersJeremy Brener