Why February 17, 2025, is Critical for the Texans
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The Houston Texans are facing their first major offseason decision, and the clock is ticking. By February 17, 2025, the Texans must decide whether to re-sign Stefon Diggs before his contract voids, making him an unrestricted free agent. If they fail to extend him, Houston will take on a $16.64 million dead cap hit, losing a key contributor without any return. This deadline is the first major indicator of how the Texans plan to build their roster heading into 2025.
Diggs' Value and Impact on the Texans
The Texans’ trade for Stefon Diggs last year caught many off guard. Given the public concerns about Diggs' character and perceived locker room issues in Buffalo, many assumed Houston wouldn’t take the risk. However, the move proved to be a strong one for both sides.
From OTAs through training camp, Diggs showcased not only his elite skill set but also his leadership. Players and coaches repeatedly praised him for mentoring younger receivers on route running and releases, as well as helping defensive backs understand receiver tendencies. His competitive energy elevated the team, bringing a much-needed spark to the offense.
On the field, Diggs was the Texans’ primary slot receiver in 11 personnel (three-wide sets) and played the Z-receiver role opposite Nico Collins in two-wide sets. His route-running IQ, separation ability, and contested catch reliability made him a key third-down target for C.J. Stroud.
The Impact of Diggs' Injury and the Texans' Offensive Struggles
Unfortunately, Diggs suffered a torn ACL in Week 8 against the Indianapolis Colts on October 27, 2024. Before his injury, he had 47 receptions for 496 yards and three touchdowns over eight games. His absence left a noticeable void, and the Texans struggled to find a reliable slot receiver in his place.
The Financial Case for Re-Signing Diggs
If the Texans do not re-sign Diggs by February 17, they will take on a $16.64 million dead cap hit. However, per salary cap expert Troy Chapman, extending Diggs could lower his 2025 cap hit to approximately $9 million, saving almost $7 million.
Chapman suggests a two-year, $25 million contract with $11.48 million guaranteed, using void years to spread out the cap hit. If Houston chooses this route, they keep a valuable veteran receiver while improving their financial flexibility.
The Uncertainty Around Nick Caley's Offensive Scheme
A key wrinkle in this decision is how new offensive coordinator Nick Caley plans to structure the Texans' scheme. Coming from the Rams, Caley’s offense is expected to heavily utilize 11 personnel and motion, which demands wide receivers to be effective blockers.
While Diggs is an adequate blocker, asking him to take on a more physical role in the run game—similar to how the Rams use Puka Nacua—may be a challenge. However, the Texans moved on from Bobby Slowik because they wanted a more adaptable offensive coordinator, and Caley may be willing to build around Diggs' strengths instead of forcing him into a rigid role.
The Texans’ Offseason Direction Hinges on February 17
The decision on Diggs will set the tone for the Texans’ offseason strategy. If they re-sign Diggs, they will likely draft a Z receiver to serve as a temporary replacement for Tank Dell, who is expected to miss part of the season. If they let Diggs walk, it likely signals that Houston will sign, draft, or trade for another slot receiver.
One notable option could be Cooper Kupp, whom the Rams are actively shopping and may even cut. While Kupp has age and injury concerns, his familiarity with the scheme makes him an intriguing fallback option if the Texans move on from Diggs.
Final Thoughts: The Texans Should Re-Sign Diggs
This deadline isn’t just about Diggs—it’s about how the Texans plan to build around C.J. Stroud in 2025. If Houston extends Diggs, they keep their proven slot receiver and free up cap space. If they don’t, the team will have to find a replacement while absorbing a major cap hit.
In my opinion, the Texans should and will re-sign Stefon Diggs. The financial flexibility makes too much sense, as reducing his cap hit from $16.64 million to $9 million provides critical breathing room. More importantly, Diggs' chemistry with C.J. Stroud, production last season, and leadership qualities make him invaluable to this offense. His passion and competitiveness elevate the team, and losing him would create another major hole to fill.
By February 17, we’ll have a clearer picture of the Texans’ direction. Will they run it back with Diggs and add depth at Z-receiver, or will they reset their slot position entirely? Either way, this is the first major offseason domino, and it’s falling soon.
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