Will Anderson Jr., the Houston Texans' standout defensive end, made a bold declaration during the team's June OTAs, emphasizing that the Texans should be considered legitimate contenders for the 2026 Super Bowl.
Speaking plainly and confidently, Anderson dismissed the typical preseason cautionary statements. Instead, he declared Houston's readiness outright, citing key offseason moves as evidence of the team's growth. These moves, according to Anderson, have already bridged the gap between last season's playoff team and one capable of hoisting football's ultimate prize.
The Montgomery Addition: A Game Changer
One of the major offseason transactions fueling this optimism was the acquisition of running back David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions. Montgomery, a durable and hard-nosed runner, piled up 716 rushing yards with eight touchdowns over 17 games in 2025, averaging 4.5 yards per carry.
But beyond statistics, Montgomery's impact lies in how defenses must adjust to his presence. Opposing teams can no longer focus solely on Houston's potent passing game led by C.J. Stroud; now they must spread their focus to accounting for a ground attack that can punish lighter defensive fronts. Anderson knows the strategic shift this entails, noting the importance of stopping the run as a foundational football truth.
General Manager Nick Caserio shared this philosophy, emphasizing, "The bottom line in this league, you gotta be able to stop the run, you gotta be able to take the ball away. We pride ourselves in being physical and that's not gonna change." Houston's backfield also retains promising backs Woody Marks and British Brooks, giving Montgomery complementary support.
A Defensive Unit Built to Dominate
Anderson's confidence is anchored in a defense that has seen significant investments in both continuity and youth. Alongside Anderson and veteran pass rusher Danielle Hunter, who provides consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, the Texans fortified their defensive front by drafting defensive tackle Kayden McDonald from Ohio State in the second round of the 2026 draft.
The secondary continues to develop, coached by a young and talented group led by shutdown cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. Rookie Kamari Lassiter has emerged as a physical presence complementing the defensive backs. With players like Lassiter expressing excitement about growing alongside Stingley, the Texans' defense appears ready to impose its will on opponents.
Stroud's Leadership and a Growing Offensive Core
The Texans' success hinges on C.J. Stroud's continued advancement at quarterback. Stroud, who threw for 3,041 yards and 19 touchdowns during the 2025 season, noted progress during the offseason.
"I'm excited to have the new guys. I'm grateful that we're beefing up the O-line," Stroud said. "I think we've taken a huge step from where we were last year to where we are now. The culture is starting to pick up on offense and we're getting it together."
Stroud's supporting cast boasts explosive receivers like Nico Collins, who had over 1,100 receiving yards last season, and versatile tight end Dalton Schultz, who recorded 82 receptions. The team also added promising young receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, both of whom showed potential in their first seasons. To protect Stroud, Houston invested in their offensive line, drafting guard Keylan Rutledge and guard Febechi Nwaiwu to complement veterans Braden Smith and Wyatt Teller.
A Balanced Roster with Cap Space for Flexibility
Importantly, the Texans have managed their salary cap prudently. With over $30 m (per Over the Cap)illion in cap space heading into the season and a total salary cap commitment of about $213 million, the team maintains flexibility to make further moves if necessary.
While about $66 million (per Over the Cap) in dead money impacts the cap, the front office's ability to maneuver remains intact. This careful financial management signals a balanced approach: the Texans are prepared to contend now without sacrificing the future.
A Culture of Competitiveness and Growth
Coach DeMeco Ryans has cultivated a culture focused on grit, growth, and resilience. "Whenever it's time to work, we push each other until we know that we can't be pushed anymore," said Kamari Lassiter.
The team's response to adversity last season, including key midseason challenges, showed toughness and determination. Combined with the physicality emphasized by management, the Texans project as a team built not just on talent, but on shared purpose.
Looking Ahead
The AFC remains fiercely competitive. The Texans will face formidable opponents like Kansas City, Cincinnati, and Buffalo as they contend for playoff positioning. However, Anderson and his teammates speak with belief rather than hope.
The difference between a playoff team and a Super Bowl champion often comes down to confidence--the refusal to flinch when stakes are highest. The Texans have moved past hoping to compete and proved they can win. Now, the challenge is to maintain and build upon that momentum.
"We're competing and we got guys who want to play ball, who want to do the right things," Stroud said, capturing the collective mindset.
As the Texans prepare for the upcoming season, their roster, coaching staff, and leadership stand aligned around one vision: to not only contend but to win it all.
Will Anderson Jr.'s voice signals that message clearly: the Houston Texans are Super Bowl contenders.
Now, they must deliver on that promise.