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Houston Texans earn top 10 ranking in ESPN NFL power polls

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 3:23 PM

Last updated Sep 8, 2026

Houston Texans earn top 10 ranking in ESPN NFL power polls

Summary

The Houston Texans enter the 2026 NFL season ranked as the 10th best team in the league according to the latest ESPN power rankings. The club maintains the top spot in the AFC South standings following three consecutive playoff appearances. To address a thin running game, Houston acquired David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions during the offseason. The roster also features defensive additions, including Jadeveon Clowney, joining an existing core of Will Anderson Jr., Danielle Hunter, and Derek Stingley. Quarterback C.J. Stroud remains the focal point of the offense after recording 10,876 passing yards through his career. The team prepares for its season opener against the Buffalo Bills this Sunday at Noon.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•The Houston Texans hold the 10th spot in the current ESPN NFL power rankings.
•Houston acquired running back David Montgomery and defensive end Jadeveon Clowney during the offseason.
•C.J. Stroud enters the season needing 3,663 passing yards to move into second place on the franchise list.
•The Houston Texans play the Buffalo Bills this Sunday at Noon.

Latest Updates

3:23 PMYahoo Sports — Texans named inside top 10 team in ESPN's power rankings ahead of Week 1

What they're saying

"
In ESPN's power rankings ahead of the beginning of the season, the Houston Texans are ranked as the No. 10 team in the NFL and top team in the AFC South.
— Yahoo Sports

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Houston Texans Buffalo Bills Detroit Lions NFL Football