The Texans Just Locked In Their Future, and the Rest of the League Is Watching

The NFL news train keeps rolling even after the league meetings wrapped, and Houston made a statement this week that says everything about their direction. The Texans have exercised the fifth-year options on QB C.J. Stroud and edge Will Anderson Jr., cementing their commitment to building around two cornerstone young talents.

While Houston was busy securing its future, the rest of the league was juggling its own moves. Over in New England, the Patriots are bringing in Shane Bowen as a defensive analyst. Bowen, 39, spent the last two seasons as the New York Giants' defensive coordinator before getting fired after a Week 12 loss to Detroit where the defense gave up 34 points. The timing is interesting too, since Bowen previously worked with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel when they were together with the Tennessee Titans.

Around the League: Trades, Signings, and Program Dates

The Colts are working on moving cornerback Kenny Moore II out of Indianapolis. The 30-year-old has been with the Colts since 2017 as an undrafted free agent, but now both sides are exploring a trade. Moore played 14 games last season with 55 total tackles, 6 pass deflections, 1.5 sacks, and 1 interception. Any team picking him up will take on his $10 million non-guaranteed salary, while the Colts get some cap relief in the deal.

The 49ers added depth to their defensive line by signing DT Cam Sample to a one-year deal. Sample, 26, came off a torn Achilles in 2024 and delivered in 14 games (two starts) for Cincinnati with two sacks, one forced fumble, and seven tackles for loss. The Jaguars, meanwhile, are being cautious with two-way talent Travis Hunter. Hunter will be a limited participant throughout the offseason program as he recovers from knee surgery, with eyes on being fully available by training camp.

Offseason Programs Are Ramping Up

The Seahawks will start their voluntary offseason program on April 20, along with a bunch of other teams. The Ravens were first out of the gate on Monday under new head coach Jesse Minter, and notably MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson showed up despite sitting out voluntary workouts in years past. Teams with new head coaches get to start early, so the Cardinals, Falcons, Bills, Browns, Raiders, Dolphins, Giants, Steelers, and Titans all kicked off on April 7.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also confirmed Friday that the league isn't done with Australia. After the 49ers-Rams game Down Under, Goodell said they're eyeing another game in 2027 as part of the league's long-term global expansion strategy.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.