As the Texans venture into free agency, Nick Caserio faces several pivotal inquiries that need addressing.

The Houston Texans aim to capitalize on their 10-win season, but the significance of free agency adds a different dimension to their plans.

Nick Caserio proved his critics wrong with a single decision last April.

Moments later, with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell at the podium, he doubled down on his belief in himself.

Houston Texans’ fans celebrated enthusiastically. They cheered as C.J. Stroud and Will Anderson Jr. were welcomed by their new leader.

Eight months later, the excitement reached its peak as Stroud and Anderson, guided by exceptional coaching from the newly appointed DeMeco Ryans, played pivotal roles on both offense and defense, securing the team’s first division title in four years.

Caserio experienced a remarkable turnaround last offseason, instantly altering the perception surrounding him. Now, all eyes are on how he will capitalize on the unexpected success to meet the heightened expectations.

Houston’s 10-7 record exceeded predictions. Even local journalists and commentators painted it as a monumental achievement, considering the team’s combined 11 wins over the previous three years.

Stroud, selected as the No. 2 pick, made history on his way to winning Offensive Rookie of the Year. Despite his impressive achievements, the 22-year-old is not yet on the level of Joe Montana or Tom Brady, despite being only the third quarterback to lead the NFL in both yards per game (287.5) and touchdown-to-interception ratio (23-5) in a single season, joining the aforementioned legends.

Houston traded multiple first-round picks to secure Anderson at No. 3 in the draft. He surpassed J.J. Watt and Mario Williams’ rookie sack record by registering seven quarterback hits. Watt, a member of the Texans Hall of Fame, later went on to win his first of three Defensive Player of the Year Awards the following year.