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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
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Sky-high expectations surround the Houston Texans, who rank seventh-best in the NFL to win the Super Bowl. C.J. Stroud and Davis Mills did not play in the preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams. Mills, who won the backup role, has fully recovered from bruised ribs suffered earlier in the preseason. He can keep the team’s playoff hopes alive in the unlikely event Stroud gets injured. Case Keenum, who suffered minor bruising to his arm during the game against the Rams, was later relieved by Tim Boyle, who threw for an impressive 142 yards and two touchdowns. Despite this, Keenum is expected to secure the No. 3 role. The team eagerly awaits the return of Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil and Tytus Howard to strengthen the offensive line, as their absence was noticeable during joint practice with the Rams.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Joe Mixon feels great returning from an early preseason hamstring injury and has built quick chemistry with C.J. Stroud and the offensive line. During joint practices with the Rams this week, he was impressed in the passing game. Meanwhile, Dameon Pierce may not be the best fit for the team’s zone-blocking system. He needs a talented offensive line to produce, as evidenced by his 7.5 yards per carry on perfectly blocked plays and just 2.4 yards per carry when it’s not perfectly blocked—one of the worst in the league. Head coach DeMeco Ryans emphasized that Pierce needed more in-game opportunities in a midweek interview but opted not to play him in the finale. When asked why Pierce did not play, Ryans said he had seen enough from Pierce in practice. These actions have led many to believe Pierce’s roster spot is either completely secure or he could be a trade candidate to a running back-needy team like the Dallas Cowboys. Cam Akers saved his best performance for last against his former team, putting three defenders on skates with highlight-reel spin moves in the second half. He has made a legitimate case for the No. 2 role behind Mixon. When asked about Akers’ performance against the Rams, Ryans said, “I love that it’s tough to make these decisions because that means you have a good football team.” Dare Ogunbowale’s roster spot is also likely secure.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
While Nico Collins, Stefon Diggs, and Tank Dell are locked in as the top options, the team has difficult decisions ahead to fill out the roster. John Metchie III and Xavier Hutchinson have shown promise throughout the preseason, with Metchie shining against the Giants and Hutchinson leading all receivers in total preseason yards. Meanwhile, Noah Brown did not have any preseason snaps and may start the year on injured reserve, creating a potential opening for versatile contributors Steven Sims or Ben Skowronek. “Anybody that makes this team is a ballplayer,” emphasized Sims, who hopes he did enough to make his hometown team’s final roster. Robert Woods has been mentioned as a trade candidate, which would free up roughly $5 million in cap space and could bring in a late-round draft pick.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Dalton Schultz’s statistical upside took a hit when Stefon Diggs was acquired, but that doesn’t mean he won’t be a consistent target for C.J. Stroud. The offensive scheme and receiving corps will continuously challenge defenses this season, and Schultz expressed his desire to be a reliable option. Dalton Keene suffered a torn ACL and will be placed on injured reserve.
Preseason Updates: Defense
"You might make it in the league, but you won't make it here. There's a standard. If you're not reaching the standard, you just won't be here,” linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair said, emphasizing how exceptional the defense has performed this offseason. The defensive unit is expected to be on par with the high-powered offense and have a significant impact in the 2024 season. Veteran safety Jimmie Ward signed a one-year $10.5 million contract extension through the 2025 season. Head coach DeMeco Ryans praised Ward’s communication, versatility, and leadership. Cornerback Kamari Lassiter has been described as a true plug-and-play rookie throughout camp. Holding his own against the exceptional Texans’ wide receiver trio in practice, Lassiter carried his play over when he faced veteran Cooper Kupp in joint practices. Rookie safety Calen Bullock has consistently performed this preseason and unsurprisingly earned time with the first-team defense this week. Linebacker Neville Hewitt had an outstanding performance against the Rams and is anticipated to play a vital role. Unfortunately, second-year safety Brandon Hill will miss the entire season due to a significant knee injury against the Rams, while reserve cornerback Kris Boyd avoided severe injury and was diagnosed with a bruised leg.
Preseason Updates: Returners
Steven Sims and Dameon Pierce will likely make the final roster, and both can line up deep on kickoff returns. Desmond King II is the team’s best punt returner, but Sims could also see some opportunities there.
Updates from Week 3
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
C.J. Stroud and the Texans' starters took the field for an entire quarter against the Giants on Saturday, and Stroud took advantage of the action. He was in midseason form, finishing 7-of-10 for 88 yards while connecting with his trio of top receivers and tight end Dalton Schultz for big gains. Head coach DeMeco Ryans has no qualms about his quarterback producing big-time plays but has reminded him to focus on mastering the fundamentals of the game. Ryans has emphasized the importance of making the right reads, executing simple plays, and taking what the defense gives to create opportunities for his playmakers. Meanwhile, quarterback Davis Mills has been in a groove this week, throwing the ball decisively. Out of precaution, he was held out of the game against the Giants due to bruised ribs, but he seems to have secured the No. 2 role.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Despite practicing in full all week, the Texans took a precautionary approach with Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon and did not play him against the Giants. The team will likely elect to rest Mixon for the entire preseason to ensure he is fully healthy for Week 1. At this point in the preseason, it can’t be a coincidence that every Texans running back looks better than Dameon Pierce. Generating just five yards on four carries, it seems likely Pierce will lose the No. 2 role to Cam Akers if he continues to struggle next week. Akers is determined not to let the narrative of his two Achilles tears define his career, and he continues to demonstrate that he can perform at a high level. Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik praised Akers for his reliability, ability to evade defenders in open space, and making "almost no mental mistakes" in the preseason. Rookie Jawhar Jordan impressed in both pass-blocking and receiving, hauling in all four of his targets against the Giants.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
The connection between C.J. Stroud and Stefon Diggs is heating up. Stroud hit Diggs multiple times in the end zone during practice this week, including a 60-yard bomb in 11-on-11 team drills. Slowik emphasized the amount of time Stroud and Diggs have put in together with "no one watching," so it’s no surprise that their connection is finally starting to click in practice. Diggs appears rejuvenated and has leaned into his role, guiding a receiver room that consistently looks to his veteran presence. Aside from the main trio of star receivers, Noah Brown, Xavier Hutchinson, and John Metchie III will likely make the 53-man roster. Metchie III, who missed his entire rookie season after being diagnosed with leukemia, scored his first NFL touchdown against the Giants. He had an impressive team-high six receptions for 68 yards. Metchie III is no stranger to playing with a highly talented roster, having come from Alabama. He expressed his satisfaction with the team dynamic by saying, "It’s the best feeling because you have a lot of like-minded people... everybody’s just trying to get better, and no one is trying to dim the other person’s light to shine." Brown is still unable to practice due to a shoulder injury. Robert Woods and Ben Skowronek remain on the roster bubble.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Dalton Schultz led all starting players against the Giants with three catches for 39 yards. He has been praised for his leadership, reliability, great hands, and finding ways to get open—especially on third downs. Rookie Cade Stover seems to have secured the No. 3 position as Teagan Quitoriano remains sidelined with a calf injury. Coach Ryans says that Stover has been one of the most consistent players on the team since he arrived: "Sometimes I forget that he's a rookie."
Preseason Updates: Defense
The defense had a standout performance against the Giants on Saturday. Derek Stingley Jr and Jalen Pitre each picked off Daniel Jones, and the defense as a unit amassed five total turnovers. While they didn’t record a sack, the defense recorded eight quarterback pressures and three tackles for loss. Stingley Jr. expressed high expectations for the Texans this season, indicating, “We’re trying to go all the way, trying to do what we [have to] throughout the year and just keep playing together as a unit.” Rookie cornerback Kamari Lassiter made a solid return to practice after recovering from an ankle injury and had an impressive debut against the Giants. Coach Ryans is glad to have Lassiter back, saying, "You don’t notice him much because he’s always doing his job. He’s always where he should be. He’s always in position. He’s always doing what we ask him to do, and as a rookie, that says a lot." Defensive end Will Anderson Jr. remains sidelined with an ankle injury but is expected to be available for the season opener. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Texans were in the mix for New England Patriots pass rusher Matthew Judon before the Atlanta Falcons ultimately acquired him in a trade for a third-round pick. Undrafted linebacker Max Tooley may have played himself into a roster spot after recording five tackles and a forced fumble.
Preseason Updates: Offensive Lines
It's taken most of the summer, but the Texans finally have their projected starters healthy at the same time. Left tackle Laremy Tunsil (offseason knee surgery), right guard Shaq Mason (arm), and right tackle Tytus Howard (knee) all returned to the lineup this week, joining left guard Kenyon Green and center Juice Scruggs to make the model's No. 9 line. Green has had a rough start to his career but has been getting tons of press this preseason for his improved physical condition. The third-year player appears on the verge of a breakout. The Texans' line ranks inside the top 10.
Updates from Week 2
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Entering the 2024 season, C.J. Stroud has gained respect from his coaches, teammates, and peers. Stroud was unsurprisingly named to the NFL’s Top 100 List, ranking No. 20 overall. Texans analyst Jonathan Harris believes Stroud was “the best I can remember seeing him in training camp this [week].” Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik is focused on Stroud's growth and consistency, emphasizing the need to “stack good days.” Slowik also praised Stroud for being more vocal, saying, “He's not afraid to make sure that everyone's doing their job, including himself, including me, including his teammates… making sure that everyone is putting in the work and doing what they need to do for us to be able to go out and execute.” Davis Mills continues outperforming Case Keenum for the No. 2 quarterback role, leading the team in passing yards for the second consecutive week of preseason action. If the right opportunity arises, the Texans could maximize Mills’ value in a trade with a quarterback-needy team before the season begins. Otherwise, they should feel confident in his ability to keep the ship afloat if Stroud misses time.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Joe Mixon actively participated in Sunday's practice after being held out of the entire training camp due to a hamstring injury. Texans fans can now breathe a sigh of relief as they wait to see how he progresses through the remainder of the summer. There are still no concerns about his Week 1 availability. Head Coach DeMeco Ryans believes Dameon Pierce has progressed since the spring, saying he’s “playing decisively, he’s explosive. You’re back to seeing that rookie Dameon who can gain a lot of yards for us. He’s got a physical mindset to him that I really love.” Although Pierce seems solidified in the No. 2 running back role, the remaining roster spots are “nowhere near being ready to figure out.” Rookie Jahwar Jordan redeemed himself by leading the Texans in rushing yards against the Steelers, and Cam Akers showed explosiveness in the second half. Dare Ogunbowale is on the roster bubble, but his special teams value may save him.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Texans analyst Jonathan Harris had a straightforward message on the wide receiver room: “There's no way to play competent and effective man-to-man coverage against the Texans when Collins, Dell, and Diggs are all on the field together.” Confidence and swagger are at an all-time high, with Tank Dell claiming the receiver room is the NFL’s best. Stroud and Dell’s connection hasn’t missed a step, as evidenced by their 36-yard touchdown connection against the Steelers. Stroud praised Dell, noting, “You can’t deny [not only] pure God-given talent, but also the work that he puts in day in and day out. Every time he touches the field, you see it put on display.” Coach Ryans isn’t concerned with outside chatter about Stefon Diggs’ ornery personality, noting, “He cares so much about winning, about being good, about his teammates, and making sure everyone is playing their best. Who wouldn’t want this guy on their team?” Xavier Hutchinson is doing his best to learn from his veteran teammates. Noah Brown has been sidelined by a strained shoulder since last week but is expected to return soon. John Metchie III is doing enough to retain a 53-man roster spot. Both Robert Woods and Ben Skowronek are on the roster bubble.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
This week, Rookie Cade Stover received high praise from Coach Ryans, calling his game presence “tough, physical, competitive, [and] finishing.” With Teagan Quitoriano out for several weeks with a calf injury, Stover has taken advantage of the extra reps, looking to lock up the No.3 role. Brevin Jordan was sidelined for the Steelers matchup but returned to practice on Sunday.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Although the first-team offense is beginning to click on all cylinders, the defense remains the standout. Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair has been disruptive against the run and pass, and his leadership and passion have been recognized by teammates and coaches alike. Pro Bowl defensive end Danielle Hunter was as good as advertised in Friday’s game, recording two pressures and a sack on seven snaps. Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. has been nicknamed “Sting the Merciless” as he keeps his foot on the neck of the offense. The drum is beating louder for rookie safety Calen Bullock after he grabbed a blazing-fast pick-six against Davis Mills. Cornerback Kamari Lassiter and defensive end Will Anderson Jr. have missed practice as they recover from soft-tissue injuries.
Preseason Updates: Returners
Steven Sims and Dameon Pierce are contending to field kickoffs in 2024. Sims is also listed as the top punt returner on the opening depth chart, but Desmond King II, a proven option, and second-year receiver Tank Dell have also been getting opportunities during preseason.
Updates from Week 1
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's What You Need To Know From Every Team This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Expectations are sky-high for reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year C.J. Stroud, especially with the arsenal of weapons at his disposal this year. With a full offseason, Head Coach DeMeco Ryans says Stroud can grow most in “leading the entire team and not just the offense,” being more vocal, and continuing to be himself. Offensive Coordinator Bobby Slowick sees this season as an “impactful year that sets the trajectory for the rest of [Stroud's] career.” Surprisingly, Thursday’s game proved the Texans have two capable backups behind Stroud. Former third-round pick Davis Mills got the start and led an impressive 13-play, 74-yard drive, ending with a nine-yard touchdown pass to tight end Teagan Quitoriano. Journeyman Case Keenum was just as capable, finding running back Cam Akers for a four-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter. Mills currently has the edge for the backup quarterback role, but he or Keenum could be moved to an insurance-needy team.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Led by Devin Singletary, the 2023 running back room ranked in the bottom ten in total rushing yards and total rushing touchdowns. The Texans opted to bolster the roster with a proven veteran, trading a 7th-round draft pick for Bengals running back Joe Mixon and signing him to a three-year, $27 million contract ($13 million guaranteed). Head Coach DeMeco Ryans has praised Mixon as a “do it all” running back, highlighting his physical running style, ball protection, and effectiveness in the passing game. Although Mixon is expected to be the bell cow running back, he has yet to participate in training camp due to a hamstring injury. However, there are no concerns about his availability for Week 1 and beyond, despite the potential for lingering effects from the injury. Mixon’s absence has allowed Dameon Pierce and rookie Jahwar Jordan to see more time with the first-team offense. Both J.J. Taylor and Dare Ogunbowale played ahead of Cam Akers in Thursday night’s Hall of Fame game, but Akers made a strong case for a spot on the roster, hauling in two targets for 18 yards and a touchdown. Akers appears healthy after suffering two torn Achilles injuries in his four-year NFL career. Expect the coming weeks to bring further insight into the battle between Pierce and Akers for the backup role.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
This Texans’ receiver room is arguably one of the best in the league, with a trio of proven talent. Ranking in the Top 20 in average target depth last season, Nico Collins and Tank Dell have picked up right where they left off. After recovering from a broken leg that cut short his rookie season, Dell has displayed his same game-breaking, dynamic speed in camp. The Stroud and Collins connection is undeniable, with Stroud calling him a “generational talent.” Four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs is set to work underneath, a place on the field where Stroud can improve, as he targeted the short field at the third-lowest rate last season. A heated battle for remaining roster spots continues, with Noah Brown and John Metchie III leading the way, making key plays in training camp. Xavier Hutchinson also separated himself from the pack with an impressive performance Thursday night, hauling in five catches for fifty-six yards and two first downs. Veteran Robert Woods has been mentioned as a cut candidate, while Ben Skowronek “continues to find his way into the trust zone of his quarterbacks.” Rookie receiver Jadon Janke has impressed with “great hands” despite not getting much work in Thursday’s game due to inclement weather.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
A proficient wide receiver corps limits the ceiling of tight end Dalton Schultz, but he remains the starter after signing a three-year, $36 million extension. Meanwhile, Brevin Jordan aims to make an impression in the final year of his contract. Coach Ryans has praised Jordan this offseason, saying, “[Jordan is] playing fast, he’s playing physical… he sticks out on tape out of everyone.” Teagan Quitoriano made an impressive opening drive touchdown catch but later sustained a strained calf in Thursday’s game that will sideline him for at least a few weeks. This setback allows Stroud’s former Ohio State teammate, Cade Stover, to see more preseason snaps. Stover and Jordan add versatility for a team that used multiple tight-end sets well below the league average last season.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Will Anderson Jr. is optimistic about the strong defensive chemistry the team has built, even with the many new additions this offseason. The reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year commended Coach Ryans for “keeping the team uncomfortable… his expectations are higher than anybody else's expectations can be [for the team].” The Texans made significant moves in the offseason, including signing Danielle Hunter to a two-year, $49 million contract and adding linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, and corners Jeff Okudah and rookie Kamari Lassiter. However, there are concerns about the lack of overall depth in pass-rushing and a concern if either Hunter or Anderson Jr. were to miss time. Third-year cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. has been “stealing the show” in camp thus far, locking down Dell and Diggs and receiving high praise from the locker room. Rookies have caught the eye of coaches and their teammates, with safety Calen Bullock forcing a fumble in Thursday night’s game and Kamari Lassiter receiving high praise for his “juice and electricity” from Anderson. Expectations are high on both sides of the ball, but this team has the personnel to walk the walk come September and beyond.
