The Texans addressed the defense in the offseason, mostly through the draft. They added linebacker Brian Cushing and defensive end Connor Barwin with their first two picks. Both are capable pass rushers, which was needed since Mario Williams had about zero help in rushing the passer last season.

Houston also added some depth defensively, signing Buster Davis and Cato June to help out at linebacker. The Texans will have a new backup quarterback this season after trading Sage Rosenfels. They signed picked up Dan Orlovsky to become the backup to Matt Schaub. Orlovsky doesn't have the experience of Rosenfels, but did some good things when getting some chances with the Lions the last few seasons.

The passing attack is the biggest strength for the Texans. They had one of the top passing games in the season last year. Andre Johnson doesn't get the press of some receivers, but he might be the best in the game. He had over 100 receptions last season. Kevin Walter has become a top starter opposite Johnson. He moves the chains and does well in the red zone. Andre Davis is a top deep threat as a No. 3 or 4 receiver and David Anderson is emerging in a reserve role as a possession receiver. And don't forget about tight end Owen Daniels, a top pass-catching tight end. The Texans are a pass-first team and with good reason.

The running back depth for the Texans has to be a concern. Steve Slaton proved to be a more than capable starter, but has a few injury concerns and there isn't much behind him on the depth chart. Oft-injured Chris Brown is back and Ryan Moats is also on the depth chart. Both should compete for the backup spot, but are far from exciting options for the Texans. Both would be a huge dropoff from Slaton if an injury occurs.

The Texans need to shore up their rush defense. This was a weakness last season, ranking 23rd overall. Rookie tackle Amobi Okoye didn't produce as expected last season and Travis Johnson needs to make more plays at tackle as well. If these two players don't start making an impact, the Texans could be in for a long season against the run again this season.

The Texans are getting close to being a playoff team. If their defense can make some more strides this season, Houston can get a playoff bid. The offense is as good as any. The key will be shoring up a defense that still allowed some big games last season, but is getting better.