The Houston Texans are hoping that the rebuild this time around won't take nearly as long as it has in the past. After a season that saw the losses pile up and controversy surround the team's superstar starting quarterback, a new head coach will try to pick up the pieces.
Bo Vandy, a relative unknown in the annals of the NFL coaching ranks, will attempt to take the franchise where it's never been before. To the Super Bowl.
The offensive minded head coach knows that he was hired because of what he can do with the football, but he also knows that the Texans have long been a franchise that was known for its defense. During his introductory press conference, he made it clear that in order to win this season, defense would need to be a focus yet again.
"We've got plenty of weapons on both sides of the ball," Vandy said. "But while people think our offense is going to be head and shoulders better than everyone, our defense needs to gain some respect."
Someone needs to tell Vandy that one reason the defense is so disrespected is because it finished 31st in the NFL last year. That was before JJ Watt was given his release. The defensive line, especially appears to be needing a reboot.
Then there's the issue of the star quarterback.
While he's still on the roster for now, he appears on his way out. Of course, on the other hand, Houston had the entire offseason to trade him. He's still a member of the team. It's simply a question as to whether the preseason is when he'll finally get dealt, or whether the new head coach will attempt to win him over.
Stay tuned on that note.