NFL power rankings: Final 32-team breakdown ahead of the 2018 draft

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 28: (L-R) A detailed view of the pick is in for the #1 overall pick by the Los Angeles Rams during the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University on April 28, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jon Durr/Getty Images) /

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – DECEMBER 31: Head coach Bill O’Brien of the Houston Texans looks on against the Indianapolis Colts during the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 31, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

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The Houston Texans enjoy a massive boost in our NFL power rankings for one obvious reason — the way they finished last year is, in no way, indicative of how good they can be.

Why? Well, few other teams suffered as many impact injuries as Houston a year ago.

The Texans will get quarterback Deshaun Watson back from a knee injury. Same with All-Pro defensive tackle J.J. Watt (knee) and linebacker Whitney Mercilus (pectoral).

Those are some pretty massive reinforcements and reasons enough to believe why Houston will be right back in the playoff discussion amid a questionable AFC South this season. As long as the Texans stay healthy, they’ll be just fine.

If that wasn’t enough for you, Houston made a big splash in bringing aboard safety Tyrann Mathieu. The secondary was one of the Texans’ bigger issues last season, and Mathieu’s presence alone changes things.

The Texans should easily compete for a playoff spot this year.