Their 7–9 record bested their previous season's output of 2–14,[1] but they failed to qualify for the playoffs for the second consecutive year.

The Oilers drafted quarterback Steve McNair with the third overall draft pick, but he started the season on the bench behind free agent signee Chris Chandler, who played solid football as the team showed improved in their first full year under Jeff Fisher.

The story of the season came on November 16 when owner Bud Adams announced plans to move the team to Nashville when the lease at the Astrodome expired in 1998.

Running backs (RB) Wide receivers (WR) Tight ends (TE) Defensive linemen (DL) Defensive backs (DB) Special teams Reserve 53 active, 6 inactive, 1 practice squad

This article relating to an American football season is a stub.