From one new fan to another.
I will be honest. I have only followed the Houston Texans for a few seasons.
The more I learn, the more I realise how much history, heartbreak and hope this young franchise already carries.
It is the team’s bye week, so what better time to take a step back and explore the history of this team together?
If you are a new fan still learning your way around H-Town football, here is a simple guide to help you catch up.
A team born in 2002
The Texans are the NFL’s youngest franchise.
They joined the league in 2002 as the 32nd team, replacing the void left when the Houston Oilers relocated to Tennessee in the 1990s.
From day one, the Texans were built on patience, community and belief that professional football belonged in Houston again.
Their first-ever game came against the Dallas Cowboys – and they won 19-10. That was the start of a rivalry that still burns bright in Texas.
Home sweet home: NRG Stadium
The Texans play at NRG Stadium, one of the league’s most recognisable venues.
It opened in 2002 and was the first NFL stadium with a retractable roof.
It seats around 72,000 fans and also hosts the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo – because, well, it is Texas.
The best of the best
For a team only two decades old, the Texans have produced some remarkable talent.
Andre Johnson is still regarded as the franchise’s greatest ever player – a dominant wide receiver who defined reliability and power.
J.J. Watt, the relentless defensive end, became a three-time Defensive Player of the Year and one of the most respected figures in NFL history.
DeAndre Hopkins thrilled fans with highlight-reel catches, while Arian Foster gave the Texans balance and beauty in the backfield during his prime years.
Now, a new generation is taking shape.
C.J. Stroud looks set to become the face of the franchise, while Nico Collins continues to grow into one of the league’s most dangerous young receivers.
Together, they could lead Houston’s next great era.
Ups and downs along the way
The Texans’ journey has not been easy.
They have reached the playoffs six times but have yet to make a conference championship appearance.
There were bright eras – especially under head coach Gary Kubiak and later Bill O’Brien – but also difficult stretches when injuries and instability took their toll.
Through it all, the fan base has remained loyal and fiercely proud of the city they represent.
The DeMeco Ryans era
Now, with DeMeco Ryans as head coach, optimism is rising again.
Ryans played linebacker for the Texans from 2006 to 2011 and returned home in 2023 to lead the team.
Under his guidance, Houston plays with discipline, energy and belief.
With Stroud and Collins leading a young, talented offense and a defense full of emerging stars, the future feels brighter than it has in years.
Why it matters
Supporting the Texans is about more than football.
It is about backing a team that represents resilience, renewal and the belief that something great is being built from the ground up.
So if you are new to the Texans, welcome. Grab your jersey, learn the names and get ready for the emotional rollercoaster that is Houston football.
The best part? The story is still being written – and it feels like it might make for a good read!
