Houston Texans: Not Always Stealing the Show, But Stealing a Name?
Ah, the Houston Texans. A team known for their passionate fanbase, their...um...interesting jerseys (battle red, anyone?), and of course, their elusive path to the Lombardi trophy. But did you know there was a time before J.J. Watt and Deshaun Watson donned the Texans helmet? A time when their name wasn't etched in the record books (well, maybe the "most heartbreaking losses" section)? Buckle up, history buffs (and those who enjoy a good chuckle), because we're about to delve into the fascinating, slightly bizarre world of the Houston Texans' pre-history.
From Humble Beginnings: Houston Without Texans
Let's rewind the clock to the late 90s. Houston, a city with a hankering for professional football, was left with a gaping hole in its heart (and its Sunday entertainment options) after the Houston Oilers yeehawed their way on outta town to become the Tennessee Titans. Fear not, Houston! The NFL, in its infinite wisdom, decided to bless the city with a brand new expansion team. But with a great franchise comes a great responsibility: coming up with a killer name.
The Name Game: A Hilarious Hodgepodge
Apparently, naming a professional football team is no easy feat. It's not like naming your goldfish (though "Mr. Fancyfins" does have a nice ring to it). Here's where things get interesting. The folks over at the NFL brain trust came up with a list of potential names that would make your inner child do a happy dance (or cringe, depending on your taste). We're talking contenders like the Houston Apollos (because who doesn't love a mythological reference?), the Houston Bobcats (purrfect for all the cat lovers out there), and the Houston Stallions (neigh sayers need not apply).
But wait, there's more! The list also included the Houston Wildcatters, which sounds more like a group of rogue accountants than a fearsome football team. Can you imagine the headlines? "The Houston Wildcatters unleashed their fury on the opposing team's spreadsheets!"
The Chosen One: Texans Ride In (Well, Eventually)
Thankfully, some sense prevailed, and after much deliberation (and possibly a few rounds of brainstorming fueled by questionable snacks), the Houston Texans emerged victorious. The name, according to team owner Bob McNair, embodied "the pride, strength, independence and achievement that make the people of Houston and our area special." Now, that's some powerful rhetoric for a bunch of guys in helmets chasing a pigskin.
So there you have it, folks. The not-so-secret history of the Houston Texans' name. While they may not have the most unique moniker (there have been several other "Texans" in football lore), it serves as a reminder of their city's rich football heritage and, of course, provides us with endless amusement when pondering the alternate realities of a Houston Bobcat or a Houston Wildcatter.
