The Houston Texans made significant investments in their roster last offseason, notably acquiring players like Stefon Diggs and Danielle Hunter, alongside defensive end Denico Autry, who was expected to bolster their defense. However, despite high expectations stemming from his previous success with the Tennessee Titans, Autry had a disappointing season in 2023, finishing with just 13 tackles and 3 sacks over 10 games, largely due to a six-game suspension. His struggles on the field have led analysts to speculate that he may be a prime candidate for release as the Texans look to optimize their salary cap situation. With his performance not justifying his nearly $11 million cap hit, cutting him could save the team around $6 million, allowing for more productive investments.

PFF's Team of the Week highlights standout performances, focusing on players who excelled in both grades and snap counts. The selections reflect a blend of efficiency and endurance, showcasing the best in each position.

Leading the offense is Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens at QB, alongside standout players like Derrick Henry and rookie sensation Ladd McConkey of the Los Angeles Chargers, who earned Offensive Player and Rookie of the Week honors for their impressive contributions. Defensively, the lineup features notable talents such as Derek Stingley Jr. from the Houston Texans, who excelled with two interceptions in a critical game.

The Houston Texans stunned the Los Angeles Chargers with a decisive 32-12 victory in the wild-card round of the playoffs, handing the Chargers their sixth one-and-done playoff exit in 30 years. The game was a reminder of the Texans' resilience and ability to capitalize on defensive opportunities, as they intercepted Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert four times despite his regular season proficiency.

Herbert struggled under pressure, facing a relentless Texans defense that sacked him four times. The Chargers' early momentum fizzled out as they settled for field goals instead of touchdowns, paving the way for a spirited Texans comeback led by quarterback C.J. Stroud.

In a thrilling playoff clash, Houston Texans' D’Angelo Ross made history by returning a blocked extra point for two points during their wild-card game against the Los Angeles Chargers. This unexpected play unfolded in the fourth quarter, enhancing the Texans' lead to 25-12.

The moment came shortly after Ladd McConkey's 86-yard touchdown reception, marking a significant shift in momentum. Denico Autry's block of Cameron Dicker's extra point attempt set the stage for Ross's remarkable play, which is only the ninth occurrence of its kind since 2000, and notably, the first-ever in a playoff game during that time.

In a historic moment during the NFL wild-card playoff matchup, D’Angelo Ross made a game-changing play for the Houston Texans by returning a blocked extra point for a score against the Los Angeles Chargers. This unprecedented event marked the first time such a play occurred in NFL postseason history. The pivotal moment came in the fourth quarter when Ladd McConkey's 86-yard touchdown reception had already energized the Texans' offense.

After McConkey's score, Cameron Dicker attempted an extra point that was blocked by Denico Autry. The deflected ball soared high into the air, and despite Dicker's effort to recover it, the ball slipped through his hands. Ross seized the opportunity, catching the loose ball and sprinting into the end zone, successfully returning it for two points. This play increased Houston's lead to 25-12, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.

The NFL has recognized the significance of this play, having implemented the rule allowing for two points to be awarded for a returned extra point since 2015. Prior to this change, any blocked extra point recovered by the defense was ruled a dead ball. This unique play in Houston's playoff game was the ninth of its kind since the rule's inception, with the last occurrence happening in the 2024 regular season when the Philadelphia Eagles achieved a similar feat against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.