After turning the Houston Texans around last year, CJ Stroud and DeMeco Ryans are looking to go one step further in the 2024 NFL season to keep on raising the ceiling and see how far they can really go. The Texans have shown promise, but with the playoffs on the horizon, there are challenges ahead that could hinder their progress.
One glaring issue that has surfaced is the team’s discipline. In the latest update of the NFL’s gameday accountability report, five Texans players were included for actions stemming from Week 15. This is a concern for Stroud and Ryans, who have worked hard to instill a winning culture within the franchise. The last thing they need is for their players to be racking up fines and penalties that could cost them crucial games.
NFL hits Texans with multiple fines in Week 15
The players who caught the league office’s attention include defensive end Denico Autry, safety Calen Bullock, defensive tackle Mario Edwards, safety Eric Murray, and punter Tommy Townsend. Each was fined for different infractions during the Texans’ 20-12 win over the Miami Dolphins.
The biggest fine was on Edwards, who was charged $22,511 for Roughing the Passer (blow to the head/neck) with 10 minutes left in the first half. This hefty penalty not only impacts the team’s finances but also serves as a reminder of the need for players to maintain control on the field. Bullock, however, was penalized twice, both fines amounting to $5,916 each.
The first fine was for Unnecessary Roughness (use of the helmet) early in the first quarter, while the second came from his hit on Dolphins WR Grant DuBose in the third quarter, which was classified as Unnecessary Roughness (hit on a defenseless player). Such actions can lead to injuries and could have long-term effects on the team’s performance.
Meanwhile, Autry had to pay $11,817 for Unnecessary Roughness (striking/kicking/kneeing) with less than a minute left in the first quarter. Townsend also received a significant fine, with the NFL deducting the punter $11,805 for Unsportsmanlike Conduct (removal of the helmet). Murray got the lowest fine among his teammates with a $9,788 penalty, but still couldn’t escape scrutiny after being flagged for a low block in the second quarter, also categorized as Unnecessary Roughness.
The Texans had managed to avoid appearing on the gameday accountability report since Week 12. One of those fines was on linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair for his controversial hit on quarterback Trevor Lawrence. This recent string of fines raises questions about the team’s focus and discipline.
Stroud, Ryans have work to do
As the leaders of a team that has put the Texans back on their feet, Stroud and Ryans can’t let lack of discipline hold them back. The NFL playoffs are fast approaching, and Houston must avoid making costly mistakes that could derail their hard-earned progress. The fines serve as a wake-up call; they must remind their players that discipline is just as crucial as talent on the field.
With the Texans’ recent success, it’s easy to overlook the importance of maintaining discipline. However, every penalty can have a ripple effect, impacting not just the game at hand but also the team’s overall morale and cohesion. Stroud and Ryans need to emphasize that every player is responsible for their actions, both on and off the field.
The Texans’ coaching staff will likely focus on refining their players’ techniques and decision-making processes to prevent further infractions. In a league where every yard counts, the Texans cannot afford to give up free yardage due to penalties. The time to act is now, and the message needs to be clear: discipline leads to victory.
As they prepare for the next phase of the season, Stroud and Ryans must ensure that their players understand the stakes. The NFL is unforgiving, and a single mistake can lead to a loss that could have been avoided. The Texans have the potential to be a formidable force, but they must harness that potential with discipline and focus.
In conclusion, the road ahead for the Texans is filled with promise, but it also requires vigilance. Stroud and Ryans have laid the groundwork for a successful franchise, but the challenge now is to maintain that momentum. With the right mindset and a commitment to discipline, the Texans can not only make it to the playoffs but also make a significant impact once they get there. The fans are counting on them, and the time to shine is now!
