What the Texans Can Learn From the Raiders’ Offseason Priorities

The NFL offseason is already heating up, and while the Houston Texans continue shaping their own blueprint, the Las Vegas Raiders are offering a case study in how teams can address their most urgent needs. A recent Sports Illustrated breakdown of the Raiders’ plans highlights themes that apply league-wide — including right here in Houston.

For the Texans, a playoff-caliber roster is in place, but several areas still need attention if the team wants to take the next step in 2025. Watching how other franchises attack their offseason challenges can be a useful guide.

Building Around the Quarterback

The Raiders are expected to scrutinize their quarterback situation this offseason. While Houston already has its franchise leader in C.J. Stroud, the SI report underscores a bigger takeaway: protecting and supporting your quarterback is priority one.

That means continued investment in the offensive line, depth at wide receiver, and a reliable backfield — all areas the Texans can improve. If Houston wants Stroud to thrive long-term, every personnel decision must revolve around maximizing his ability to operate comfortably and create explosive plays.

Strengthening the Defense

Sports Illustrated also highlighted the Raiders’ focus on closing defensive gaps. Houston shares a similar challenge. While the Texans made strides under head coach DeMeco Ryans, they need more consistency in the pass rush and secondary.

The Texans defense showed flashes of dominance, but depth and durability issues surfaced late in the season. As the Raiders explore upgrades, Houston should do the same — especially with several potential starters hitting free agency.

Why It Matters

The AFC is stacked with elite quarterbacks and aggressive offenses. To keep pace, the Texans must build a resilient roster capable of adjusting and improving every season. Learning from how other teams, like the Raiders, approach roster holes helps broaden the Texans’ perspective as they head into free agency and the draft.

With C.J. Stroud ascending, the Texans have a rare opportunity: build a contender while their star quarterback is still on a cost-controlled rookie deal. The better they capitalize now, the higher the ceiling for the next several years.

This article is a summary of reporting by Sports Illustrated. Read the full story here.