Jan 11, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik and head coach DeMeco Ryans look on before the game against the Los Angeles Chargers in an AFC wild card game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

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Texans fire offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik and offensive line coach: Here’s why it happened

Texans fire Bobby Slowik after offensive struggles.

The Houston Texans have parted ways with offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik and offensive line coach Chris Strausser. The decision comes days after their AFC divisional loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, marking the second consecutive season they’ve fallen short at this stage. The firings were confirmed by league sources, though the Texans have not yet made an official announcement.

Slowik’s rise and fall with the Texans

Bobby Slowik, hired in 2023, initially seemed like a promising addition to Houston’s coaching staff. The offense thrived in his first season, ranking 12th in total yards and 13th in points per game. This success was driven by rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, who won AP Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. Stroud led the Texans to a 10-7 record and their first playoff win in four years.

The Houston Texans have fired offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik.pic.twitter.com/AHT4Fsz5kB
— User Not Found (@astros_dude) January 24, 2025

However, this year told a different story. The Texans’ offense regressed, dropping to 22nd in total yards and 19th in scoring. Stroud’s sophomore slump was evident—his interceptions climbed from five to 12, while he was sacked 52 times, the second-highest total in the league. Injuries to key players like Stefon Diggs, Tank Dell, Joe Mixon, and Nico Collins exacerbated the struggles, leaving the offense unable to find consistency.

Offensive issues and mounting pressure

While Houston’s defense delivered playoff-caliber performances, the offense faltered against top-tier opponents like the Chiefs and Ravens. Even against weaker teams such as the Titans and Jets, Slowik’s play-calling lacked adaptability. Fans and analysts criticized his inability to counter defensive adjustments, a stark contrast to the creativity that marked his first season.

The offensive line’s poor performance under Chris Strausser compounded the problems. Stroud faced relentless pressure, and the team’s running game struggled to gain traction.

Urgency to compete in the AFC

The Texans’ decision signals a clear sense of urgency. With the AFC stacked with contenders, Houston’s front office appears unwilling to waste its current window to compete. Head coach DeMeco Ryans, who was noncommittal about Slowik’s future in recent press conferences, now has the task of finding replacements who can maximize the team’s potential.

A major change in Houston: The #Texans are moving on from offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, sources say, after an up-and-down offensive season.

Despite reaching the divisional round, coach DeMeco Ryans hopes for more. OL coach Chris Strausser is also out. pic.twitter.com/UYOdNiADAx
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 24, 2025

Houston finished 10-7 for the second straight year, winning another wild-card game before bowing out to the Chiefs. Despite consecutive playoff appearances, the Texans are demanding more from their offense as they look to establish themselves as serious contenders.

(Image : Imagn Images)

Bobby Slowik

Natasha Bose

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