The Houston Texans entered 2025 with the goal of riding the wave with a redesigned offense. However, after their disappointing loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday night, they are facing a 0–2 start.
The season meant to be about retaliation has swiftly become a reality check.
Are the Houston Texans Struggling at 0-2, and What’s the Update on Christian Kirk?
The Texans’ offense just hasn’t clicked. The offensive line has been leaky, constantly forcing C.J. Stroud to play under duress. New offensive coordinator Nick Caley hasn’t found his rhythm either, with play-calling that feels predictable and conservative.
Red zone struggles and an overall lack of creativity have left Houston fans shaking their heads. Stroud, who was sharp as a rookie, has looked unsettled, taking too many sacks and missing throws he usually makes.
Of course, it’s hard to look dynamic when some of the best weapons aren’t even on the field. Running back Joe Mixon won’t be back possibly until Week 5, and wide receiver Christian Kirk has yet to make his Texans debut. Without that firepower, Houston’s offense has felt incomplete. The good news? Help may finally be on the way.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans gave Texans fans something to smile about this week when he hinted that Kirk and fellow receiver Braxton Berrios could return for Sunday’s matchup.
“We’ll see how things go, but we’re expecting to get those guys back this week,” Ryans said.
“We’ll see how things go, but we’re expecting to get those guys back this week,” – #Texans DeMeco Ryans on WR Christian Kirk & WR Braxton Berrios
— Adam Wexler (@AdamJWexler) September 16, 2025
Kirk’s return would be huge for Stroud and the Texans. The wide receiver had to undergo surgery to repair a broken collarbone, which ended his 2024 season with the Jaguars. In an attempt to add veteran leadership and consistent output, Houston acquired him in the offseason.
Injured During Preseason, Will Kirk Make His Texans Debut Sunday?
But a preseason hamstring injury delayed his debut, forcing the Texans to be cautious. After missing the first two weeks, Kirk seems ready to finally suit up in the red, white, and blue.
Kirk’s presence should help unlock the offense. His crisp route-running and ability to find soft spots in coverage could take some pressure off Stroud and give Nico Collins more room to operate. For a team struggling to finish drives, his reliability on third downs and in the red zone could be exactly what Houston needs.
At 0-2, the Texans don’t have much margin for error. Winning Week 3 isn’t just about getting in the win column; it’s about keeping pace in an AFC South that has always fallen into their hands. If Kirk can hit the ground running and Mixon returns soon after, Houston may finally look like the team many expected it to be.
