TEAM NEEDS/OFF-SEASON STRATEGY

1. The Texans have a slew of needs in the offseason that start with finding a capable quarterback in free agency. The Texans are talking to teams about dealing David Carr. They will ideally be able to pick up Jake Plummer, if the Broncos release him.

2. The Texans also need a starting running back, a No. 2 wide receiver who can make plays and take the attention away from Andre Johnson. They also need a left tackle who can provide some continuity at a position that has lacked it for five seasons.

3. Running back: The Owls finished last in the league with 2.3 yards per carry, which all but eliminated the viability of play-action passes. A big, strong runner is needed to get respect from linebackers inside. Brandon Jacobs from SIU might be a good fit.

MEDICAL WATCH
No updates.

FRANCHISE PLAYER
None.

TRANSITION PLAYER
None.

UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS

--OT Brad Bedell was signed as an emergency pickup late last season when injuries plagued the tackles. He will not likely be back.

--TE Mark Bruener showed he has the versatility to be a blocker and catch a few passes. Great leader in the locker room. Should be back.

--DT Lional Dalton came off the street when injuries hit the Texans. He played well and should get a chance to compete for a spot in camp.

--RB Ron Dayne emerged as the Texans' best running back last year. The Texans will ideally sign him to return as a situational back next season.

--LB Troy Evans is a backup linebacker and excels on special teams. He will likely be back.

--DE N.D. Kalu wants to stay in Houston to retire. He proved to be valuable last season -- moving inside to tackle even. He is a great leader in the locker room and will likely return.

--DT Cedric Killings came off the street to play well. He will be given a chance to compete for a spot in the offseason.

--CB Dexter McCleon provided solid backup. May return and even be looked at to move to safety.

--DE Antwan Peek struggled with injuries and didn't post any impressive numbers. He is likely gone.

--LB DaShon Polk is a backup at middle linebacker but excels on special teams. May be back.

--LB Wali Rainer spent all season on the injured reserve. He won't likely be back.

--OT Ephraim Salaam will likely return as a backup. He was valuable stepping in for the injured Charles Spencer last season. He was also a good leader in the locker room and coach Gary Kubiak values veteran leadership.

--CB Lewis Sanders may return as a backup. He was solid in coverage before missing the end of the season with a broken hand.

--P Chad Stanley struggled last season, especially on the road. He wants another chance, but the Texans might snatch up another punter if there is a solid one on the free agent market.

--S Michael Stone was signed late in the year and played sparingly. He may return, but will likely have trouble earning a spot.

RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS

--CB Roc Alexander spent almost the entire season on the Injured Reserve. A young cornerback who could compete for a spot in camp.

--LB Charlie Anderson has long arms and is very athletic. He played sparingly behind Shantee Orr. Contributes on special teams, so he could return.

--S Glenn Earl is still young and improving. He is a quality tackler and plays well against the run. He will be back.

--CB Von Hutchins will likely be re-signed. He will probably be given a chance to move to safety.

--LB Shantee Orr struggled to adjust from 3-4 to 4-3, but came on strong at the end of the season and will be back.

EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS
None.

PLAYERS RE-SIGNED: None.

PLAYERS ACQUIRED
None.

PLAYERS LOST
None.

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