One of the more surprising performers thus far in the 2023 season is the Houston Texans. They entered their Week 7 bye with a 3-3 record, only one game behind the AFC South-leading Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Jaguars won again in Week 7, pushing their record to 5-2 on the year, but one of those losses came against the Texans, who won on the road in Week 3. Having the tiebreaker could be crucial down the stretch if Houston continues playing at the level in which they have so far.
Despite being in the early stages of what many thought was a rebuild, the Texans could be buyers ahead of the trade deadline. No one would fault them for making a push for a playoff spot following the last three tumultuous seasons they have endured.
If they are going to look to upgrade the roster, finding reinforcements on defense would make sense. You can never have too many pass rushers and improving in that area would help the team improve in their pass defense, as they are 26th in passing yards allowed. On the season, Houston only has nine sacks as well.
One NFL scout who spoke to NFL Analysis Network believes the Texans could make a trade ahead of the deadline that not only improves their standing for this season but will help long-term as well. Chase Young of the Washington Commanders would be an ideal target for the team in their opinion.
“Look, the Texans have a chance to compete for the playoffs this season. If they can add young talent for both now and the future, they should do that at the trade deadline. I think a guy like Chase Young would be a perfect fit in Houston.”
Young, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, had the fifth-year option on his rookie contract declined this offseason. That has put Washington in a tough predicament as he and Montez Sweat are hitting free agency in 2024.
With only one franchise tag to use, and with so much money already tied up in the defensive line, the Commanders likely can’t afford to keep both. Knowing that a team such as the Texans could look to make an offer for Young ahead of the deadline.
Young has returned to form this season. He is looking more like the player who won the Defensive Rookie of the Year, not the guy who has been derailed by a knee injury the last two seasons. Pairing him with Will Anderson Jr., the No. 3 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, would give the Texans two young, high-upside pass-rushing bookends to rely on for years to come.
