Three reasons to be optimistic about the Houston Texans

Despite finishing the season with the second-worst record in the league (3-13-1), Houston must be excited about its future. This offseason could begin a great era in the franchise's history. 

Here are three reasons to be optimistic about the Texans in 2023: 

1. A new identity under HC DeMeco Ryans

The most-sought candidate this coaching cycle, the former 49ers DC returns to where his NFL playing career began. Ryans describes this role as his "dream job." With his passionate leadership skills, he will connect with and help his young players reach their full potential. 

Ryans' addition will undoubtedly have the biggest impact on Houston's defense. It allowed 24.7 points per game last season, the sixth worst in the league. He doesn't have the talent he had in San Francisco, but there is enough in place to make a significant turnaround in 2023. 

Even if the Texans don't win many games next season, they'll continue to improve as more players suitable for Ryan's system are acquired.

2. An abundance of assets can make for a creative offseason

Per Spotrac, Houston has the sixth-most projected cap space in the league heading into free agency; if GM Nick Caserio wants to spend heavily in free agency, he can do so. 

However, as Houston is unlikely to become a free-agent destination overnight, preserving cap space this offseason could pay dividends in the long run. 

Bringing in veterans with a culture-driven mindset to help Ryan create his vision for the team may be the best choice for spending the team's cap space this offseason.

Aside from their large amount of cap space, the Texans will have 11 picks in the 2023 NFL Draft, including the second and 12th overall picks. 

They could select a top QB prospect with the No. 2 pick, though perhaps Caserio focuses on improving the surrounding roster now and targets the position in 2024. 

3. Promising youngsters already on the roster

The Texans invested in the defensive backfield early in last year's draft, selecting CB Derek Stingley Jr. in the first round and safety Jalen Pitre in the second.

Stingley struggled at times, but he didn't allow a touchdown. He only played nine games due to a hamstring injury. Stingley will thrive under Ryans if he stays healthy in 2023. 

On the other hand, Pitre's stats reflect his success. Only Ryans had more tackles as a rookie in franchise history. 

WR John Metchie III, who missed this past season after being diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia, is expected to play in 2023. With his blazing speed and explosiveness, he could quickly emerge as the team's top offensive threat. 

Houston's offensive star last season, rookie RB Dameon Pierce (1,104 total yards, five touchdowns), should continue to improve.