AFC South post-NFL Free Agency rankings: Where do Jacksonville Jaguars land?

2. AFC South rankings post 2023 NFL Free Agency: Houston Texans

The Houston Texans had nowhere but up after going 3-13-1 in 2022. However, they seem to have a clear vision, something they lacked since they fired head coach and general manager Bill O'Brien in 2020. One big reason for the Texans' regained focus was the decision to part ways with director of football operations Jack Easterby, who was a big reason behind the team's struggles.

The duo of head coach DeMeco Ryans and general manager Nick Caserio has quickly gotten to work and Houston has been one of the most active teams in free agency this year. Not only that, but most of the signings they've made get them closer to leaving the cellar of the AFC South. The Texans drafted a quality running back in Dameon Pierce last year but they locked up David Singleterry, who should form a dynamic backfield alongside Pierce.

Caserio also managed to secure Pro Bowl linebacker Denzel Perryman and tight end Dalton Schultz. The fact that the Texans didn't have to overpay for any of the players they secured makes the signings look even better. The only move that may not be as good as the others is wide receiver Robert Woods, who got a two-deal worth $15.5 million.

While it's true that the Texans needed to replace Brandin Cooks, who was traded to the Dallas Cowboys, Robert Woods is a WR2 at best at this point of his career. Houston still needs to find a bonafide No. 1 receiver and a quarterback but they should be able to do it in the 2023 NFL Draft. For the time being, Houston has made encouraging steps in the right direction.