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Updates from Week 4
Quarterbacks
C.J. Stroud looked markedly more composed in Sunday's game against the Saints, completing his first preseason touchdown. Though his time on the field was limited, his development was promising. He went 2-for-4 with a single touchdown and 16 passing yards. Unsurprisingly, the coaches formally named Stroud the Week 1 starter following the preseason finale. "It was definitely a blessing, something that I think I worked for and definitely earned," Stroud said. "At the same time, nothing else really changes. Still going to work like the way I'm working, but even more now. I'm blessed enough to be able to be a starter, so young in this league, which isn't the easiest thing to do. But I know my coaches have trust and faith in me, so I'll go out there and do my best." Davis Mills is the clear No. 2. While he's shown a limited ceiling in past seasons, he's quickly adapted to the new offense, making him one of the league's better backups. But given that the Texans used their second overall draft pick on Stroud, it's highly unlikely he'll lose his starting role this season. Instead, the team will stick with him through the highs and lows. Mills probably won't see much action in 2023, barring an injury to Stroud or mop-up duties in late-game scenarios.
Running Backs
If preseason usage is anything to go by, Dameon Pierce is set for a heavy workload. He has taken almost every snap with the first-team offense and picked up right where he left off in his rookie season, running hard and powering the offense’s engine. A wide zone running scheme could further benefit Pierce, allowing him to make plays in space. Many pundits expected a split between Pierce and Devin Singletary, but the preseason usage and roles say otherwise. Journeyman Mike Boone appears to have earned the No. 3 job and might be the passing-down specialist.
Wide Receivers
Nico Collins caught Stroud’s first and only preseason touchdown and sits firmly atop the pass-catching pecking order. Robert Woods will be the team’s No. 2, but the situation gets murkier from there. Both Tank Dell and John Metchie are likely earmarked for special teams duties; Dell even showcased his electric kick-return skills during Sunday's preseason game. Although Noah Brown was initially projected as the team's No. 3, Dell's explosive plays have been hard to ignore. Sixth-round rookie Xavier Hutchinson led the team in targets on Sunday and is expected to make the roster as the No. 5. Overall, Collins, Woods, Brown, Dell, Metchie, and Hutchinson are likely to make the Week 1 roster, but consistent contributions remain uncertain beyond Collins.
Tight Ends
Dalton Schultz could emerge as the secondary target behind Collins this year. Having recovered from an early camp injury, he's been used sparingly since. The Texans invested nearly $6.3 million in Schultz this offseason, essentially guaranteeing him the first shot at starting. Teagan Quitoriano and Brevin Jordan are expected to make the roster as backups. Both are young prospects who may see rotational action but are unlikely to become fantasy relevant.
Defense
DeMeco Ryans, the Texans' new head coach and former linebacker, has assembled a formidable defense in Houston. He took on play-calling duties in Sunday's game, a role he's expected to maintain throughout the regular season. While a strong defense will help keep the team competitive, it may also limit the offense's output, making fantasy points hard to come by. Rookie edge rusher Will Anderson, who impressed whenever he was on the field, was given the final preseason game off.
Returners
Steven Sims Jr seems likelier to make the final roster as a return specialist. If he is cut, the team could turn to veteran Desmond King and rookie Tank Dell.
Updates from Week 3
Quarterbacks
C.J. Stroud looked more settled in his second preseason start, showcasing accuracy and anticipation across different areas of the field. There’s very little debate about who the Week 1 starter will be, and the team is confident in Stroud’s future. Although he showed off his rushing ability last week, he mainly stayed in the pocket for this game. The offensive line allowed too much pressure in the first game. They protected the pocket better this week, allowing Stroud to deliver some strikes. Davis Mills is experienced and appears locked in as the No. 2. He started and finished the second half against the Dolphins. After seeing what he’s done over the last few years, he makes for a good backup. But Stroud’s upside makes him the more alluring option under center.
Running Backs
Dameon Pierce appears poised to be the bell cow back in 2023, getting 100 percent of the snaps with the starters in this week’s preseason game. Although he didn’t do much statistically, his aggressive running style was displayed. Devin Singletary, whom many projected to be a satellite back in Houston, may be relegated to more of a backup role. He didn’t see the field until the starters were done for the night. For fantasy purposes, losing a passing-down role would severely limit his upside.
Wide Receivers
Nico Collins continues to widen the gap between him and the rest of the roster. Stroud has looked his way in the red zone, and they consistently connected on deep shots in joint practices against the Dolphins. Noah Brown started Saturday’s game, his first preseason action. Although not a household name, the coaches have lauded him throughout the offseason, and he seems to be receiving preferential treatment typically reserved for veterans. He received all his snaps with the starters and had a memorable contested catch. Robert Woods also saw action, hauling in an 11-yard reception. Tank Dell has been the buzz of camp since his exciting preseason debut. Although he warmed up in the pregame, leg tightness kept him sidelined. His injury isn’t an ongoing concern. John Metchie had the opportunity to play well in Dell’s absence, but things didn’t go well for him. Collins, Woods, Brown, Dell, Metchie, and Xavier Hutchinson will likely be on the Week 1 team.
Tight Ends
Starter Dalton Schultz caught a pair of passes but didn’t have a great game. Schultz started camp with an injury but has since solidified his role atop the depth chart. There’s stiff competition behind him as Teagan Quitoriano and Brevin Jordan hope to regain the No. 2 spot. They have similar strengths as receivers but aren’t known for their blocking. Quitoriano had a 14-yard catch with the second team as Jordan missed the game with an undisclosed injury. We hope for more clarity on the situation next week.
Defense
The defense has been the strength of this team throughout camp, and Denzel Perryman intercepted Tua Tagavailoa on the first play of Saturday’s preseason game. However, the first-team defense gave up a 93-yard touchdown on the next drive. Rookie edge defender Will Anderson has been working against Pro Bowl tackle Laremy Tunsil in camp, and iron is sharpening iron. Anderson looked phenomenal in the preseason game, barreling through a running back and getting a strip sack on Skyler Thompson. Derek Stingley continues his impressive camp, even while facing the Dolphins’ elite receivers. He jumped a route in 1-on-1s and had an impressive interception, showcasing his hands. It stands to reason the defense has to do better than give up 21 points in a single half. It’s possible the positive camp reports have been more indicative of the Texans’ struggling offense than the defense’s ascendance.
Offensive Line
Two weeks ago, right tackle Tytus Howard broke his hand, requiring surgery. The timetable for his return is 4-6 weeks, giving Howard a slim chance to return for the season opener. The team had just signed free agent George Fant a week prior, and the former Jets and Seahawks starter has been getting all the first-team reps. In other news, rookie center Juice Scruggs has been impressive in early action. With Laremy Tunsil still anchoring the line, the Texans' offensive line retains relevance, ranking 21st overall.
Updates from Week 2
Quarterbacks
As anticipated, the Texans officially named C.J. Stroud the starter after he received most of the first-team reps in practice. Stroud's preseason debut was a cautious one, completing 2-of-4 passes for 13 yards with no touchdowns and an ill-advised interception. Rookies face a steep learning curve, and Stroud needs to understand that NFL safeties can quickly close gaps if he locks onto his intended target. His scrambling abilities, which weren't as prominent behind Ohio State's offensive line, could add value. It was challenging to assess Stroud's performance in the preseason game, as the offensive line left him under pressure for most of his dropbacks. Head coach DeMeco Ryans swiftly removed the rookie from the game. David Mills stepped in and played well, while Case Keenum also managed the offense effectively. While the veteran's box scores may look better, it's important to remember that this was Stroud's initial exposure to NFL gameplay, and the veterans faced second- and third-team defenses. Expect Stroud's role to expand against the Dolphins next week, with Mills still projected as the team's No. 2.
Running Backs
Dameon Pierce got the night off; he’s the clear-cut every-down starter. With Pierce out, Devin Singletary got the start but was held to 14 yards on 5 carries. Importantly, Singletary was replaced by Dare Ogunbowale on passing downs, suggesting Singletary is more of a traditional handcuff to Pierce rather than a passing-game substitute. The offensive line struggled against the Patriots' first-team defense, and running lanes were tough to find. Mike Boone only got nine snaps, but he churned out 25 yards on four carries. He also caught his lone target for seven yards. Considering he touched the ball on over half of his snaps, it’s clear that the coaches are looking to evaluate the undrafted 28-year-old veteran further. Ogunbowale’s chances at making the 53-man roster seem high, given his role as the passing-down back at the start of the game.
Wide Receivers
Tank Dell, who has been drawing some camp buzz, was the highlight of the preseason outing. He caught five passes for 65 yards and a touchdown and was targeted eight times. He displayed his after-the-catch abilities on a slant route and showcased ball-tracking skills on a lofted ball in the end zone. His primary weakness as a prospect was attacking the ball at the catch point, and a bobble in the end zone highlighted these concerns. Nonetheless, his playmaking potential was undeniable. The coaches clearly wanted to see what they have in him, explaining why he received 31 snaps. Coach Ryans said of Dell, “He’s always open.” Nico Collins started, too, which was a bit concerning as veteran Robert Woods and Noah Brown were given the night off along with many veteran starters. Collins only played nine snaps, so it’s possible he’s still in line to be a starter as the X-position. All eyes were understandably on cancer survivor John Metchie, but he only hauled in one pass on 19 snaps. Brown believes that Woods is the paragon of the receiving corps.
Tight Ends
Dalton Schultz got the start but was pulled along with Stroud, Collins, and Singletary after the second drive. Dalton Keene, who is listed as a tight end, got some snaps at fullback and scored on a goal-line plunge in the third quarter. Teagan Quitoriano spent most of the preseason on the PUP list but was able to pad up in the first practice after the preseason game. Brevin Jordan continues to miss time with an undisclosed injury.
Kickers
The theory of the Texans signing undrafted rookie kicker Jake Bates to develop as a possible replacement for Ka’imi Fairbairn took a hit this week when the team released him. This move accommodates tight end Teagan Quitoriano's activation from the PUP list.
Defense
Rookie linebacker Henry To'oTo'o lived up to his camp hype and was the standout in his preseason debut, drawing an elite 90.6 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus on just 16 snaps. He impacted the game in coverage and as a pass-rusher. Will Anderson, this year’s third overall pick, only saw nine snaps. He showed promise in his limited appearance. Shaquill Griffin, who recently returned from a neck injury, looked good in his return. He had a pair of tackles and looked fluid in coverage. Chase Winovich, Denzel Perryman, and Kurt Hinish each picked up sacks. Hinish has looked good this summer, but the team’s depth at the position could still push him off the roster. It’s no surprise that the team’s strength right now is on the defensive side of the ball. Coach Ryans was a former All-Pro linebacker for the Texans and defensive coordinator for the 49ers. He’s building a foundational defense.
Returners
The Texans have no clear leaders in the return competition. Steven Sims Jr, Desmond King, and rookie Tank Dell are in the running.
Updates from Week 1
Quarterbacks
Rookie QB CJ Stroud has had expected ups and downs through his first NFL training camp. After back-to-back bad practices on Monday and Tuesday, Stroud showed up rested on Thursday with his most impressive practice yet. In addition to looking “methodical” and “in control,” Stroud rushed for a 19-yard gain to extend a scoring drive. Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik’s playbook is reportedly “as thick as a bible,” but Stroud seems to pick it up well. On Saturday’s practice, most reporters talked about how quickly he was getting rid of the ball. However, Stroud has also displayed struggled when pass protection breaks down, forcing him into some ill-advised turnovers. Davis Mills hasn’t been officially relegated to the backup spot yet, but Stroud will likely get the Week 1 start. Mills and Case Keenum spend most of their time with the 2s and 3s. The staff has yet to decide so far, but Stroud’s time with the 1’s seems to be growing daily, including a full day with the starters on Friday and Saturday. Many team reporters expect the announcement that Stroud will be the Week 1 starter by next week.
Running Backs
Dameon Pierce and Devin Singletary are both getting work in the passing game. Assuming the influences on DeMeco Ryans and Bobby Slowik, expect an uptick in running back targets from last year. Pierce and Stroud have been seen working together a lot during individual periods. Shortly after Saturday’s individual workouts together, Pierce caught a fade in the end zone in 7-on-7s. Mike Boone is a name to keep an eye on. He’s a tough veteran who is expected to make the final roster. The 49ers entered Week 1 with four running backs on their roster last year, and the Texans may do the same. Devine Ozigbo was brought in for a workout, but his role behind Pierce and Singletary would be extremely minimal.
Wide Receivers
Nico Collins appears to be the WR1, and he and Stroud have displayed a knack for each other in the end zone early. Collins has been drawing coverage from Derek Stingley Jr and winning plenty of reps. The biggest play of camp so far from a bomb from Stroud to Collins against Shaquill Griffin. Robert Woods, albeit 31 years old and new to the Texans, is also an active part of the passing game. Noah Brown is expected to be the team’s WR3. John Metchie, who missed his rookie season while battling leukemia, has been another name regularly showing up in reports. However, his impact hasn’t been felt much on the offense so far, but he will likely make the team due to his projected special teams role. Tank Dell and Xavier Hutchison are the team’s rookie wide receivers and have shown some exciting flashes themselves. There’s a chance that Metchie, Dell, or Hutchison climb the ladder throughout camp, but Collins, Woods, and Brown are the current starting trio. Dell has made the biggest impression so far, drawing praise from the coaches, Stroud, and other wide receivers. “A joy to coach,” Slowik said about Dell. That being said, Hutchison has also been a standout. The young wide receiver corps for the Texans appears bright.
Tight Ends
Dalton Schultz, Brevin Jordan, and Teagan Quitoriano have been injured, making assessing the Texans’ TE room difficult. Schultz returned to practice on Friday but had a quiet day. He looked like his normal self on Saturday and is poised for a significant role under his freshly-inked deal. Jordan Murray has been drawing a bit of buzz in reps with Davis Mills, but he’s more likely to be cut before Week 1 than he is to vault himself up on the depth chart.
Kickers
Ka'imi Fairbairn was outstanding last year, going 29-for-31 on field goals and making all 24 extra point attempts, but the Texans still signed rookie free agent kicker Jake Bates out of Arkansas this week. There’s zero chance Bates will win a competition with Fairbairn despite some lip service from special teams coordinator Frank Ross, but with the veteran due $3.65 million on the final year of his contract this year, the Texans could be trying to develop a replacement for next year that they will stash on the practice squad. Bates is best known for leading FBS college football in touchback percentage last year.
Defense
Rookie DE Will Anderson has high expectations, but being matched up with Laremy Tunsil in practice has proven to be a tall ask. Anderson’s impact in the run game has been felt, but he hasn’t had much success getting past Tunsil in the passing game. However, Tunsil took Friday off, and Anderson immediately logged a strip sack on Stroud. After a great rookie season, Derek Stingley Jr is locked in as the team’s CB1. CB Shaquill Griffin appears set to play opposite Stingley. Griffin, who has been dealing with back problems, appears healthy this year. He said, “I can also be that player that I once was before that injury happened.” Veteran Jimmie Ward has also been impressive in camp so far. No surprise there. Christian Harris is the only LB with a guaranteed starting spot. Denzel Perryman’s experience gives him a slight advantage over the rest, but Henry To’Oto’o, Blake Cashman, Christian Kirksey, and Corey Littleton are all getting run with the 1’s as well. Rookie To'oTo'o has drawn lots of praise from the coaching staff. Backup CB Steven Nelson was brought back on a 1-year/$6.5M deal. DE Chase Winovich was activated from the PUP.
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