Texans Face Bye Week Challenges With 2-5 Record and Turnover Issues
Houston prepares to travel to Los Angeles after a seven-game stretch marked by inconsistent offensive line play and secondary struggles.
By Fatou Kim ·
The 2026 Houston Texans have entered their bye week with a 2-5 record, a start that highlights the disconnect between individual player performance and team results. The squad now turns its attention to a road game against the Los Angeles Chargers this weekend in Los Angeles.
Quarterback C.J. Stroud has emerged as the standout performer for the offense, protecting the ball with only two fumbles and one interception through seven games. General Manager Nick Caserio and head coach DeMeco Ryans praised Stroud's preparation during the spring and summer, noting his work ethic in training camp. This consistency contrasts sharply with his previous season, where he threw four interceptions in a single half during a loss to New England.
Defensive end Will Anderson Jr. continues to lead the NFL in sacks with 7.5 through seven weeks. Although he was held without a sack in weeks six and seven, Anderson remains a primary pressure point for opposing quarterbacks. He is currently the favorite for the Defensive Player of the Year award, though the break in play allows rivals like T.J. Watt to close the statistical gap.
Placekicker Ka'imi Fairbairn has provided a steady presence on special teams, converting all field goal attempts under 45 yards. His only miss came from a 58-yard attempt in week two that fell short. However, his kickoff technique has cost the team, including a late sequence against the Indianapolis Colts where touchbacks allowed the opponent to start at the 35-yard line.
The secondary has struggled to contain opposing quarterbacks, resulting in an increase in explosive plays allowed compared to the 2025 season. Safety Reed Blankenship, who signed a three-year contract worth $24 million to stabilize the back end, has been one of the worst performers in the league when targeted. Cornerback Kamari Lassiter, a Pro Bowler in his second season, has yet to record an interception this season, matching the zero-interception mark for his teammate Derek Stingley despite their combined eight picks last year.
Special teams coach Frank Ross faces criticism for units that have committed numerous penalties and struggled with coverage discipline. Offensive line coach Cole Popovich is also under scrutiny as the running game remains ineffective. The offensive line saw significant turnover this offseason, with free agency additions Braden Smith and Wyatt Teller currently serving as backups.
The Texans will resume their season by traveling to Los Angeles to face the Chargers. The team looks to build on the individual successes of Stroud and Anderson while addressing the persistent issues in the secondary and special teams units.
