Sean Pendergast has been a staple on Houston sports radio for almost two decades. He currently cohosts the morning show on 610 AM with Seth Payne. He has been a good partner over the years and has always been willing to spend time with us to answer our questions. Considering how close he is to the Texans (he usually hosts the pre-game and post game shows on 610), he seemed like a perfect guy to reach out to get his thoughts on the 2025 season and the 2026 offseason. We started by looking back at
the 2025 season. (Author’s note: Sean answered these questions before the Tytus Howard and David Montgomery trades. I’m sure, knowing that would have altered his answers some.)
Battle Red Blog: Looking back on the whole season, did the Texans reach your expectations that had coming into the season? Did they exceed expectations? Underperform?
Sean Pendergast: I picked them to go 12-5, so technically, they met my expectations. Also, on any outlet that I spoke with during the preseason, in or out of market, I said the defense would be the best in team history. So those aspects of the team obviously were right where I thought they’d be. I thought the offense made some improvements in the offensive line, which isn’t saying much considering 2024 was a disaster. The slow burn when it came to the offensive implementation was disappointing.
BRB: Obviously, a lot was made of C.J. Stroud’s performance in the playoffs and his long-term future is probably the most high profile question coming into the offseason. Where are you on Stroud and his future in Houston?
SP: I am still optimistic about Stroud, but not bullish on him like I was after his rookie season. The Patriots game was just a disaster, for which there is no defending. I think what it comes down to is “Do you think that was just a bad day, or was it something more?” The Pittsburgh game is the more interesting one, because he had the five weird fumbled snaps, but also made some sensational throws in that game. Also, he was very disciplined in his approach during the second half of the regular season. Glass half full — with improvements to personnel, the second year in the system, and CJ rejiggering his approach (including the haircut!), I am still hopeful.
BRB: Will Anderson is obviously a huge priority to get signed long-term this offseason. Are there any other free agents from the Texans that you feel should be a priority to re-sign?
SP: I would make sure to bring back at least two of the defensive line veterans at the right price. Sheldon Rankins and Derek Barnett on one year deals appeals to me. Denico Autry, too. Ed Ingram is a big wild card, because I have no idea what his market is going to look like, but at the right price, he obviously makes sense. Also, Tommy Townsend. A capable punter for a few million bucks is valuable.
BRB: The Joe Mixon story is one of the more bizarre stories from the last year. Obviously, none of us knows exactly what happened, but if you had to speculate, do you think it was a football or non-football related injury? Do you think he plays another down for the Texans?
SP: Based on things Nick Caserio has openly said — i.e. he wasn’t cliff diving or jet skiing or whatever — I tend to think that it was an injury related to getting better at football, but perhaps off premises from team facilities, but like most everyone not named Joe Mixon, I have NO idea. I do think he is done as a Texan, unfortunately, because he was fun to watch play.
BRB: Obviously, free agency and the draft are not here yet and we don’t know exactly who will be available, but in general, which positions do you see the Texans targeting there?
SP: Running back, for sure. I think there are at least two, if not three spots in flux on the offensive line. I’d like to see another tight end brought in. In fact, I’m probably open to drafting a tight end with the 28th or 38th overall pick. Getting something aside from a journeyman with upside on the interior defensive line would be great. That probably comes in the draft. Finally, secondary depth is a bigger need than people are acknowledging. Stingley, Lassiter, Pitre, and Bullock is an elite quartet, but the drop off is MASSIVE. Need some good depth.
We want to thank Sean for being such a cooperative partner over the years. He has always been willing to lend a hand and answer our questions. This is just a reminder that you can catch Sean and Seth in the mornings on 610 AM from six t0 ten AM. You can also break down their shows via podcast, watch them on YouTube and Twitch. The conversations will definitely get more interesting as free agency and the draft approaches.
