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One of the best and most comprehensive features we offer every year is our Footballguys Preseason Updates. Every week this month, Bob Henry, Jason Wood, Clayton Gray, and their team of Footballguys Staffers cover every player that matters from every NFL team. It's 32-plus pages of some of the most comprehensive coverage you'll find. It's probably worth the Footballguys Premium Subscription by itself.
Updates from Week 4
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
C.J. Stroud is not just hoping to improve after a frustrating 2024 season for the Texans. He is determined to reestablish the team among the AFC's elite, alongside the Ravens, Chiefs, Bills, and Bengals. New offensive coordinator Nick Caley shares this motivation, aiming to elevate the Texans to the next level. Caley noted that Stroud was "put in some adverse situations last season, but our job is to find solutions. We always take the mindset: What can we do to help? I'm looking to get more easy downs for him." In just a few weeks, Stroud will be calling audibles, checking into different play calls, and changing protections before the snap for the first time in his NFL career. The coaching staff believes this is a critical next step in his development. Stroud has already demonstrated his ability to handle this increased leadership in practice, adjusting routes and making changes at the line of scrimmage. The Texans hope these improvements will translate to game day and that Stroud can take another leap in his third season. In the Texans' final preseason game, quarterback Graham Mertz redeemed himself and earned a spot on the 53-man roster. He completed 14 passes for 145 yards and a touchdown, while also showing improvement in practice this week. Mertz is expected to assume the No. 3 quarterback role behind Davis Mills.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
The Texans still do not have a set timetable for running back Joe Mixon's return. His injury and rehab process have remained somewhat of a mystery throughout training camp, as Mixon still remains on the NFI list. The team is committed to not rushing him back into action, taking a cautious approach to his recovery. Unsurprisingly, Mixon has dropped significantly in fantasy draft rankings in recent weeks. Avoid taking him, even at what is perceived now to be decent value. In the first quarter of the Texans' preseason game against the Lions, Dameon Pierce handled 78% of the carries and played 91% of the snaps. Nick Chubb is expected to start while Mixon is sidelined, but his role may be limited given his underwhelming 2024 stat line and Pierce pushing for more opportunities in recent weeks. Woody Marks scored a tough touchdown at the start of the second quarter against the Lions. His pass protection in games has been impressive and should get him in the rotation on the field this season. Dare Ogunbowale will likely make the final roster as Mixon stays on the NFI list.
