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2016 NFL Power Rankings: Chasing The West Divisions

By Erik Lambert

Nov 15, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (30) is pursued by Arizona Cardinals defenders during the third quarter at CenturyLink Field. The Cardinals won 39-32. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 15, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (30) is pursued by Arizona Cardinals defenders during the third quarter at CenturyLink Field. The Cardinals won 39-32. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 14, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) stretches out with defensive tackle Brandon Dunn (92) during minicamp at Methodist Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 14, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) stretches out with defensive tackle Brandon Dunn (92) during minicamp at Methodist Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports /

10. One would think a team that won their division and made the playoffs a year ago would be higher on the list. Especially since it seems they’ve improved their roster in a number of key areas. So why are the Houston Texans only 14th? A variety of factors. Chief among them is the simple state of the division. The AFC South looks a good deal tougher than it did last season thanks to the returns of Andrew Luck and Marcus Mariota, along with the rapidly improving Jaguars. <p>Then there is the relative unknown at quarterback. Brock Osweiler has talent for sure, but he’s still inexperienced and no longer can hide behind the tag of being a backup. He’s making the big money now and is expected to play like it. Thankfully like in Denver he’ll have a strong defense to lean on. J.J. Watt and Co. are still one of the top units in the league. If Jadeveon Clowney can finally take that big step forward it could become the best. Meantime Osweiler can take full advantage of weapons like DeAndre Hopkins and Lamar Miller.</p>. . . Houston Texans . 14. player

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