The Origin of Houston Texans: A Deep Dive Into a Proud Tradition

From its founding in 2002, the Houston Texans have been an integral part of the NFL, representing the city and state with pride and a strong community spirit. The name 'Texans' was selected through a process that aimed to evoke local identity and pride, fitting the team's place in the history of American football in Texas.

History and Selection Process

The Houston Texans came to be when the National Football League (NFL) awarded a franchise to the city of Houston in 2000, following the departure of the Oakland Raiders and the relocation of the Houston Oilers. This marked the first NFL team in Houston since the Oilers moved to Nashville in 1996. The name was chosen through a comprehensive process involving fan input and extensive deliberation.

The selection process for the team name included a series of focus group committees who generated a list of potential names which were then narrowed down to three options: Apollos, Stallions, and Texans. These names were carefully considered to align with the city's identity and cultural significance.

The Background of the Name "Texans"

Although the Houston Texans chose the name 'Texans' out of a sense of pride in the state, it is worth noting that the term has a rich historical significance. The name has roots in Texas football history dating back to the mid-20th century when Dallas had two NFL teams named the Texans.

According to historical records, the first pro football team in Texas or the South was called the Texans, though they only played for a single season in 1952. After this brief stint, the team moved to Baltimore to become the Colts. Later, the American Football League (AFL) allowed Dallas to have another team, also called the Texans, which eventually moved to Kansas City, becoming the Chiefs.

When the Houston Texans sought to choose a fitting name, they were faced with the challenge of naming the team in a way that would distinguish it from other NFL teams. The options 'Apollos' and 'Stallions' were rejected due to their similarity to existing names in other sports leagues, such as the Houston Astros in Major League Baseball and the Houston Broncos in the NFL. This left 'Texans,' a name that resonated with the state's proud heritage and cowboy culture.

The Press Conference and Final Decision

The final decision on the name 'Texans' was made by Bob McNair, the team's principal owner. At the press conference to unveil the name, logos, and graphics, Bob McNair gave a passionate speech highlighting the significance of the name. He shared:

"Whats in a name? Let me tell you about the Houston Texans. The name is a nod to the rich cultural heritage and history of Texas and Houston. As the Texans, our team represents the spirit of the city and the entire state, embodying the values and the pride of our community."

This speech underscored the importance of the name and its alignment with the broader goals of the team. The name 'Texans' was a deliberate choice to honor the state's history and to foster a sense of community and belonging among the team's fans.

Conclusion

The Houston Texans' origin story is one of reflection and pride. The name 'Texans' was carefully selected to capture the essence of the city and state. As the team continues to represent Houston and Texas, 'Texans' remains a symbol of local pride and community spirit.