The Houston Texans have been about as busy as any team in free agency this year. Much of that energy and cap space has been spent reloading their defensive line by bringing in several veterans. That list includes Denico Autry, Danielle Hunter and Mario Edwards.
However, according to Pro Football Focus they still need to add more interior defensive line depth before training camp begins two weeks from now.
"The Texans were active in free agency, adding veteran pass-rusher Danielle Hunter, trading for Stefon Diggs and making a host of other moves. The young and hungry Texans surprised everyone in 2023, but some veteran experience and savvy will go a long way for them in 2024, as will some help on the interior defensive line. The edge positions are locked in with Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. wreaking havoc, and newcomers Denico Autry and Foley Fatukasi provide beef up the middle, but some extra recruiting could help strengthen the interior."
PFF has a point and getting interior pressure is more important than ever in the modern game when quarterbacks are so quick to get rid of the ball. Then again, fans should keep in mind that distinctions between edge defenders and interior linemen are less meaningful than they used to be and a lot of quality edge rushers can get pressure inside, as well.
Houston is about as stacked as any team on the edge right now, especially after bringing back old man Jerry Hughes for another season. That means head coach DeMeco Ryans should be more than capable of filling whatever holes they may have inside with creative alignments and versatile rushers like Hunter.
If the Texans are going to make another significant move before the season begins, we'd prefer they address their offensive line, which has been ranked one of the league's worst by ESPN analyst Mike Clay. Specifically, they should be looking for an upgrade at right tackle as well as an experienced center.
