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Houston Texans forever - Mixon to miss at least first four games (4 Viewers)
- Thread starter GregR
- Start date
GregR
Footballguy
Houston Texans safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson's ACL remains intact after he suffered a scary knee injury in Thursday's scrimmage, a person with knowledge of the situation told the Houston Chronicle.
Gardner-Johnson underwent tests Thursday at the Greenbrier Resort, which revealed he did not suffer an ACL tear in his right knee. He's expected to receiver further tests in the near future to determine the injury's extent and will miss time. How much time he'll miss remains uncertain.
Though it was not an ACL tear, his injury is a major blow to the Texans, who hoped he could help form one of the better secondaries in the NFL this season.
GregR
Footballguy
Houston Texans safety Jimmie Ward was arrested for the second time in three months and was booked at the Montgomery County jail Thursday evening, according to jail records.
It’s unclear why he was arrested the second time, but in June he was arrested after being accused of choking and threatening to kill a woman at his Magnolia home. The woman later filed for an emergency protective order against Ward.
He was expected to have a court appearance later this month.
Update: Ward's lawyer, Steve Jackson, told KPRC 2, Houston's NBC affiliate, that Ward was arrested because he tested positive for alcohol in violation of his previous release and that, as a result, he had to spend the night in jail. Jackson told the television station that Ward was not facing any new allegations and that Ward was not aware he could not drink alcohol.
It’s unclear why he was arrested the second time, but in June he was arrested after being accused of choking and threatening to kill a woman at his Magnolia home. The woman later filed for an emergency protective order against Ward.
He was expected to have a court appearance later this month.
Update: Ward's lawyer, Steve Jackson, told KPRC 2, Houston's NBC affiliate, that Ward was arrested because he tested positive for alcohol in violation of his previous release and that, as a result, he had to spend the night in jail. Jackson told the television station that Ward was not facing any new allegations and that Ward was not aware he could not drink alcohol.
Houston turmOiler
Footballguy
Would prefer to never watch Graham Mertz ever again. My god he's awful.
Ersery started at LT and did pretty well. As said in the observation thread, the o'line seemed to do very well on the first drive (although there was a false start in the redzone, I think Fisher at RT but not 100%.) idk how many starter guys the Vikings had in on Def but their pass rush is pretty deep and they wrecked us last year so thought that was a good sign even if just 1 series. 2nd series they subbed a few guys out and T Zack Thomas got put in at LT and got abused on that series giving up a hit and a sack on back to back plays. Not sure how he might have done after that because I stopped watching as it was scrub time.
GregR
Footballguy
The Texans signed safety Jalen Mills, agents Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey told ESPN's Adam Schefter on Sunday.
Mills' signing comes after safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson suffered a knee injury during the Texans' practice in West Virginia on Thursday.
Gardner-Johnson isn't expected to be out long term; there's a chance he can return for the Texans' Week 1 game against the Rams in Los Angeles.
Mills brings veteran experience, having played nine seasons in the NFL after being a 2016 seventh-round pick for the Philadelphia Eagles. After his four years in Philadelphia, he signed a four-year, $24 million contract with the New England Patriots in 2021. Mills spent last season with the New York Jets.
My note: Radio heads were talking on Friday about whether the Texans should bring in a front line caliber safety. One (Reggie Adetula) was making the case for Jalen Mills over Justin Simmons that he would fit in CJGJ's strong safety role better. I am not familiar enough with him to have an opinion.
Mills' signing comes after safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson suffered a knee injury during the Texans' practice in West Virginia on Thursday.
Gardner-Johnson isn't expected to be out long term; there's a chance he can return for the Texans' Week 1 game against the Rams in Los Angeles.
Mills brings veteran experience, having played nine seasons in the NFL after being a 2016 seventh-round pick for the Philadelphia Eagles. After his four years in Philadelphia, he signed a four-year, $24 million contract with the New England Patriots in 2021. Mills spent last season with the New York Jets.
My note: Radio heads were talking on Friday about whether the Texans should bring in a front line caliber safety. One (Reggie Adetula) was making the case for Jalen Mills over Justin Simmons that he would fit in CJGJ's strong safety role better. I am not familiar enough with him to have an opinion.
GregR
Footballguy
Mills, 31, a former cornerback turned safety, played for the New York Jets during the 2024 season where he started in eight games. He had six pass deflections, an interception and a forced fumble.
Mills gives the Texans much-needed depth and a potential fill-in starter while safeties C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Jimmie Ward and rookie Jaylen Reed remain out with injuries. The Texans were down to M.J. Stewart and Russ Yeast, who played the majority of the snaps in their preseason opener against the Vikings.
With Mills having played for the Jets under Robert Saleh, he had experience playing in defense similar to the one Texans coach DeMeco Ryans deploys.
Mills gives the Texans much-needed depth and a potential fill-in starter while safeties C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Jimmie Ward and rookie Jaylen Reed remain out with injuries. The Texans were down to M.J. Stewart and Russ Yeast, who played the majority of the snaps in their preseason opener against the Vikings.
With Mills having played for the Jets under Robert Saleh, he had experience playing in defense similar to the one Texans coach DeMeco Ryans deploys.
GregR
Footballguy
Who is rising?
LB E.J. Speed
Speed was all over the place. He had a huge hit in the first quarter and made two plays in coverage — one for a 3-yard loss and deflected another pass.
Speed has been consistent throughout camp. And though he may not start this season, coach DeMeco Ryans will find a way to get him on the field.
He provides excellent depth for the Texans linebackers, who often missed time last season, including Christian Harris.
WR Jalyn Noel
If there was one takeaway from Noel’s performance, it’s that he’s a legitimate playmaker. The Texans were facing a third-and-long on their first drive, when they threw a screen pass to Noel. Noel rumbled up the field, bounced off a tackler, avoided another and worked his way to a first-down.
“They called up a play to get the ball in my hands and I just had to make the most of my opportunity,” Noel said. “My teammates blocked well for me.”
Noel said he felt confident in his role.
It’s nothing short of what he’s done in camp, but he’s continued upon that. Noel did not return punts, but certainly has that ability.
First-team offensive line
The first-team offensive line, minus Tytus Howard and Laken Tomlinson, their two most consistent linemen looked good on Saturday.
Aireontae Ersery played left tackle, Juice Scruggs played left guard, Jake Andrews was at center, Ed Ingram at right guard and Blake Fisher at right tackle.
The first drive was the only drive that Ersery and Andrews played, but they made a huge difference.
Ersery was special. He opened up massive holes and kept Minnesota’s edge rushers away from Davis Mills. Running back Dare Ogunbowale averaged nearly six yards per carry, and Mills was 4 of 5 for 50 yards and a touchdown. That was because the offensive line was so good on that first drive.
“It’s been an easy transition,” Ersey said of going from right tackle to left. “I’ve got older vets who have helped me a lot to make sure I’m prepared and I have that confidence as a young player to play fast.”
WR Braxton Berrios
Berrios was playing in his first game since tearing his ACL in October. But there were no signs of limitations. Berrios caught all three of the passes that came his way for 33 yards, including a touchdown on the opening drive.
“It was amazing,” Berrios said of the touchdown. “Obviously you play this game to produce for your team, and when you get an opportunity like that, that was set up so well by everybody else doing their job it feels great.”
Berrios also returned kicks and punts, which could help him make the roster, if it comes down to a few final players.
Who is falling?
OT Blake Fisher
Fisher’s standing on this roster is evident by how long he remained in the game. While players like Aireontae played only one series because the coaches had seen enough, Fisher remained in for an entire half.
And it didn’t go so well.
Fisher was called for a false start on the first drive, a continuation of the false starts he has accumulated throughout camp. He then gave up a team-high six pressures, a half sack and a couple of quarterback hits.
Fisher, a 2024 second-round pick, has gone from being the favorite to start the season-opener at right tackle to being a prime candidate for a trade before cut day.
Backup offensive line
The depth behind the first-team offensive line hasn’t been great. Fisher wasn’t the only lineman to struggle. Zach Thomas was also called for a false start, gave up a sack and was responsible for three pressures allowed.
Jaylon Thomas, the backup guard, who had performed well in camp, also struggled in pass protection. On one play, a Vikings defensive lineman put Thomas on his butt.
While Ed Ingram, Juice Scruggs, and Jarrett Patterson, all feel like players who could play if called upon, the others like Zach Thomas and Jaylon Thomas have not instilled confidence.
Safety depth
The depth at safety is being tested.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson is expected to miss the next several weeks, maybe longer, after suffering a knee injury Thursday. Jimmie Ward remains on the physically unable to perform list with a foot injury and rookie Jaylen Reed remains out with an undisclosed injury. Because of that, the Texans were forced to play safety Russ Yeast for most of Saturday’s game. He played 61 defensive snaps, which is basically the entire game.
M.J. Stewart played 38 snaps and was also called upon to play a lot.
LB E.J. Speed
Speed was all over the place. He had a huge hit in the first quarter and made two plays in coverage — one for a 3-yard loss and deflected another pass.
Speed has been consistent throughout camp. And though he may not start this season, coach DeMeco Ryans will find a way to get him on the field.
He provides excellent depth for the Texans linebackers, who often missed time last season, including Christian Harris.
WR Jalyn Noel
If there was one takeaway from Noel’s performance, it’s that he’s a legitimate playmaker. The Texans were facing a third-and-long on their first drive, when they threw a screen pass to Noel. Noel rumbled up the field, bounced off a tackler, avoided another and worked his way to a first-down.
“They called up a play to get the ball in my hands and I just had to make the most of my opportunity,” Noel said. “My teammates blocked well for me.”
Noel said he felt confident in his role.
It’s nothing short of what he’s done in camp, but he’s continued upon that. Noel did not return punts, but certainly has that ability.
First-team offensive line
The first-team offensive line, minus Tytus Howard and Laken Tomlinson, their two most consistent linemen looked good on Saturday.
Aireontae Ersery played left tackle, Juice Scruggs played left guard, Jake Andrews was at center, Ed Ingram at right guard and Blake Fisher at right tackle.
The first drive was the only drive that Ersery and Andrews played, but they made a huge difference.
Ersery was special. He opened up massive holes and kept Minnesota’s edge rushers away from Davis Mills. Running back Dare Ogunbowale averaged nearly six yards per carry, and Mills was 4 of 5 for 50 yards and a touchdown. That was because the offensive line was so good on that first drive.
“It’s been an easy transition,” Ersey said of going from right tackle to left. “I’ve got older vets who have helped me a lot to make sure I’m prepared and I have that confidence as a young player to play fast.”
WR Braxton Berrios
Berrios was playing in his first game since tearing his ACL in October. But there were no signs of limitations. Berrios caught all three of the passes that came his way for 33 yards, including a touchdown on the opening drive.
“It was amazing,” Berrios said of the touchdown. “Obviously you play this game to produce for your team, and when you get an opportunity like that, that was set up so well by everybody else doing their job it feels great.”
Berrios also returned kicks and punts, which could help him make the roster, if it comes down to a few final players.
Who is falling?
OT Blake Fisher
Fisher’s standing on this roster is evident by how long he remained in the game. While players like Aireontae played only one series because the coaches had seen enough, Fisher remained in for an entire half.
And it didn’t go so well.
Fisher was called for a false start on the first drive, a continuation of the false starts he has accumulated throughout camp. He then gave up a team-high six pressures, a half sack and a couple of quarterback hits.
Fisher, a 2024 second-round pick, has gone from being the favorite to start the season-opener at right tackle to being a prime candidate for a trade before cut day.
Backup offensive line
The depth behind the first-team offensive line hasn’t been great. Fisher wasn’t the only lineman to struggle. Zach Thomas was also called for a false start, gave up a sack and was responsible for three pressures allowed.
Jaylon Thomas, the backup guard, who had performed well in camp, also struggled in pass protection. On one play, a Vikings defensive lineman put Thomas on his butt.
While Ed Ingram, Juice Scruggs, and Jarrett Patterson, all feel like players who could play if called upon, the others like Zach Thomas and Jaylon Thomas have not instilled confidence.
Safety depth
The depth at safety is being tested.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson is expected to miss the next several weeks, maybe longer, after suffering a knee injury Thursday. Jimmie Ward remains on the physically unable to perform list with a foot injury and rookie Jaylen Reed remains out with an undisclosed injury. Because of that, the Texans were forced to play safety Russ Yeast for most of Saturday’s game. He played 61 defensive snaps, which is basically the entire game.
M.J. Stewart played 38 snaps and was also called upon to play a lot.
GregR
Footballguy
Texans tight end Brevin Jordan suffered a right knee injury during Monday's practice and has been placed on season-ending injured reserve.
Jordan had to be carted off the field after initially trying to walk it off. The injury happened during an 11-on-11 drill as quarterback C.J. Stroud threw a pass down the seam to Jordan. The fifth-year tight end jumped but couldn't corral the pass.
Jordan had to be carted off the field after initially trying to walk it off. The injury happened during an 11-on-11 drill as quarterback C.J. Stroud threw a pass down the seam to Jordan. The fifth-year tight end jumped but couldn't corral the pass.
Major
Footballguy
Sunk cost I suppose but burning a 1st on Green and trading up for a 2nd in Metchie hurts. Do better Nick!
GregR
Footballguy
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GregR
Footballguy
Have debated for awhile what to reply there. I think the way they look at it as there were two big aspects to last year's failure. Scheme/coaching/execution was a big one. A lot of free runners at the QB. Dalton Schultz blocking by himself pro bowl tier pass rushers, when he probably couldn't keep my 80+ year old mother from the sale on cabbages at HEB. We've heard the O-line room itself was a poor environment. A lot of blame aimed at Slowik, and also I'd assume the OL coach who was let go.
Second there's also the quality of players and how they contributed to last year. I think the "toxic" thing was misapplied to Tunsil specifically as I think the original quote was about the room itself. But he was the leader and didn't lead. Couldn't even learn the damn snap count to not commit penalties.
So, my take, is they applied some of that accountability that we're always hearing people say teams need to do. Slowik, the OL coach and the player leader gone. Brought in the players they could. I imagine they probably would have liked a little higher quality FA but they also didn't have a ton of money for it. But they signed guys with experience.
I think that's kind of the core of their thinking. Get in some guys who might be later in their career but that you can count on to execute. Improve the coaching. Draft a rookie high. If you do that, you aren't going to be a top 5 unit, but could you end up middle of the pack and respectable? Quite possibly given how much of the fail last year was just pure ineptitude from the coaches and working as a unit.
So part of the hesitation in answering is, no one can really say much on how it's going until the season gets here. The 1st string has played pretty well in the first two preseason games. Which, they are preseason games. So take them with the amount of salt you deem proper. On the positive end, I mean they could have looked bad in preseason which would be a good cause for concern, but didn't. They aren't allowing free runners, when blitzed they are picking up the right players, etc. Also, Ersery, the tackle they drafted, is so far looking like he could be a starting caliber tackle. Which Blake Fisher (last year's 2nd round pick) hasn't overall (though he did look good against the Panthers, he hasn't played at that level consistently at all).
So take from all that what you will. We won't really know until we're playing a team who game planned for you and who has a better front 7 than the Panthers.
rockaction
Footballguy
Fair enough. Thanks for taking me through your thought process. Sometimes things aren't quantifiable and things are too murky to assign any kind of blame anyway. The Jets made football waves last month when Marc Schlereth said the Jets ran the worst- blocked offensive run scheme he'd ever seen last year and then went into detail why but one could never figure out how much of it was Hall's inability to follow basic keys correctly and so it was easy to blame Hackett and the other guy, but there was differing levels of culpability and nobody will ever know.
So thanks again and I hope it was all coaching for you guys.
GregR
Footballguy
So summing up some thoughts of late, it is, again, just preseason. But have to like what we've seen from the draftees to this point in time.
I may not expect a lot out of WRs J Higgins or J Noel (I mean rookie WRs who do well are still not the norm), but both have looked like they can contribute, nor would I be at all surprised if either of them has a 40 catch season or even a Tank Dell-like rookie year.
T Aireontae Ersery has looked like a solid tackle what we've seen of him.
CB Jaylin Smith looks better than all the corners competing for the 3rd CB slot (apart from what time Pitre will play there in his slash role).
RB Woody Marks has looked decent in protection and seems like he is showing enough to at least see a few touches in the season even if Mixon and Chubb are head of him.
Safety Jaylen Reed has looked good for a 6th round pick. Potential solid depth at the very least. Wish he wouldn't have been injured for some of the preseason games so could have seen him.
The other 6th round pick (Mertz at QB) and 7th round picks DT Kyonte Hamilton and TE Luke Lachey I really can't speak to at all, don't know that they have shown much so far.
But overall? At this point, the draft class is overwhelmingly trending positive.
I may not expect a lot out of WRs J Higgins or J Noel (I mean rookie WRs who do well are still not the norm), but both have looked like they can contribute, nor would I be at all surprised if either of them has a 40 catch season or even a Tank Dell-like rookie year.
T Aireontae Ersery has looked like a solid tackle what we've seen of him.
CB Jaylin Smith looks better than all the corners competing for the 3rd CB slot (apart from what time Pitre will play there in his slash role).
RB Woody Marks has looked decent in protection and seems like he is showing enough to at least see a few touches in the season even if Mixon and Chubb are head of him.
Safety Jaylen Reed has looked good for a 6th round pick. Potential solid depth at the very least. Wish he wouldn't have been injured for some of the preseason games so could have seen him.
The other 6th round pick (Mertz at QB) and 7th round picks DT Kyonte Hamilton and TE Luke Lachey I really can't speak to at all, don't know that they have shown much so far.
But overall? At this point, the draft class is overwhelmingly trending positive.
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GregR
Footballguy
Also, heard some talk about DE Darrell Taylor on the radio. Radio host and former DT Seth Payne was apparently talking him up (though I didn't hear Payne's comments directly, heard later discussion about it). Looks like he's a 2nd round pick in 2020, had 9.5 sacks for Seattle as a backup in 2022. From what I gathered Payne was really liking the thought of Taylor being in on clear passing downs alongside WAJr and Hunter.
Well summed up in this post and the other. The announcers on the preseason games seemed to really highlight the o'line picking up pressure and playing well. Granted its preseason and Carolina was dead last in defense last year. I think scheme and coaching is probably the biggest x-factor, many of us talked about in this thread how embarrassing it was to see quotes from players last year talking after bad losses about how they had no answers for defensive schemes, couldn't call out rushers or pickup assignments properly and couldn't (or wouldn't) make any adjustments at half time. If the coaching on these things can improve then maybe we won't have a top 5 o'line but at least we can avoid being bottom 5 this year?
Think this could be a draft class that could really contribute and really shine next year. Ersery, Smith & Marks are probably going to contribute out the gate. Nico, Kirk, Higgins, & Noel give Stroud some legit targets and hopefully they can stay healthy the majority of the time. The enigma of Mixon (I won't be surprised if it turns out he's done at this point given how cagey they've been on his injury) likely means Stroud may get leaned on more this year but will actually have guys to actually complete passes to unlike most of last year.
A bit worried about that schedule, 3 playoff teams and 2 division games before the Bye and then Seahawks, 49ers, Bronco's the next 3 games. Other than the Bills/Chiefs, the back half of the schedule is much less scary though. Unless we really surprise against some of those better teams I am thinking 9-10 wins with most of the W's coming in the back half of the year...
GregR
Footballguy
Seven takeaways from Texans-Lions practice: Offensive line struggles early, two receivers stand out
Offensive line starts slow, but regains footing
It wasn’t a great start for the Texans’ first-team offensive line. The Lions got constant pressure, sacking quarterback C.J. Stroud and forcing him to throw the ball in the dirt.
Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson got the best of rookie left tackle Aireontae Ersery on a few reps and went back-and-forth with tackle Tytus Howard.
But even though the line started slow, they made up for it over the second half of practice, finally giving Stroud enough time to make a few plays and find open receivers.
St. Brown, Williams have success vs. Texans' secondary
The Texans are expected to have one of the better secondaries in the league, but Lions receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams made Houston work for it.
While cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. made several plays against St. Brown, he also got beat when Williams split Stingley and safety M.J. Stewart for what looked like a touchdown pass from quarterback Jared Goff.
Another review showed his second foot was not in bounds, however.
Meanwhile, St. Brown was like a knife, cutting through the middle of the field. He caught two passes for touchdowns in the red zone.
“They’ve got a lot of speed on the Lions’ offense, so defensively you have to adjust,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. “You have to be able to react and stay on top and eliminate the explosives.”
A third attempt from Goff to St. Brown on a similar play was intercepted by second-year safety Calen Bullock. St. Brown, thinking he had another touchdown before Bullock jumped in front, playfully picked up Bullock before setting him down.
The two Texans standouts
While the Lions’ defense made plenty of plays against the Texans’ offense, they never had an answer for Nico Collins, who often found himself open for big gains.
But that was mostly the result from getting separation from the cornerbacks guarding him. The Texans probably should have gone to him more often.
The other standout was rookie Jaylin Noel, who made several plays in team drills, including a touchdown from Stroud in the corner of the end zone. He was dominant against the Lions' second-team defense.
Noel has displayed his playmaking ability all throughout camp. He’ll find some time on the field this season and should make an impact.
Two-minute drills end in stops
Both first-team offenses ended practice with the two-minute drills.
The Lions’ drive included a big play from tight end Sam LaPorta, but it ended at about the 18-yard line. The Lions were forced to kick a field goal.
The Texans’ drive ended at the Lions 35-yard line. It’s possible the officials missed a call. It appeared Stroud found Xavier Hutchinson for a deep gain that would have put them at about the 20-yard line.
But after intense discussion between two officials who appeared to disagree, Hutchinson was ruled out of bounds although it looked like he kept both feet in.
Texans kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn was forced to kick a deep field goal, which he made.
Xavier Hutchinson emerging
Hutchinson, who is entering his third season with the Texans, is finally starting to emerge as a legitimate weapon.
He’s become one of Stroud’s go-to options in recent weeks, which would be a huge boost for the former sixth-round pick.
“I’m super proud of him,” Stroud said. “He’s playing with the most confidence I’ve seen. He’s balling. He’s doing really well.”
Hutchinson made a big play in the Texans’ playoff win over the Chargers, when he caught a pass from Stroud on a broken play. He’s been finding ways to get open throughout camp, which is something he had struggled with in the past.
Christian Harris back, but Azeez Al-Shaair not practicing
Christian Harris is back practicing in pads. In his first full practice against another team, he made several plays. He had a run stop as well as a diving pass deflection.
Harris missed the first dozen practices of training camp and did not participate in the joint practices or preseason game against the Carolina Panthers as he recovered from a calf injury.
“Christian is doing a really nice job of working his way back into football shape,” Ryans said. “He’s in a really good spot right now.”
Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair did not practice Thursday.
It’s unclear what he is dealing with, but Ryans said Al-Shaair is dealing with something minor and will be fine moving forward.
Who won the practice?
While the Lions' offense got a few chunk plays on the Texans' defense, the defense was better as it neared the red zone and came up with a few stops. The Texans’ defense was also credited with two strip sacks, including one by edge rusher Will Anderson Jr.
Still, Goff and his receivers were able to have success and frustrate Houston’s secondary.
The Lions showed why they’ve been one of the NFL’s better teams over the past few years.
The Texans weren’t bad. They made improvements over the latter part of practice, which included getting into more of a rhythm on offense.
But if we’re grading who won, you’d have to give it to the Lions, who had just a little more success on both offense and defense.
Offensive line starts slow, but regains footing
It wasn’t a great start for the Texans’ first-team offensive line. The Lions got constant pressure, sacking quarterback C.J. Stroud and forcing him to throw the ball in the dirt.
Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson got the best of rookie left tackle Aireontae Ersery on a few reps and went back-and-forth with tackle Tytus Howard.
But even though the line started slow, they made up for it over the second half of practice, finally giving Stroud enough time to make a few plays and find open receivers.
St. Brown, Williams have success vs. Texans' secondary
The Texans are expected to have one of the better secondaries in the league, but Lions receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams made Houston work for it.
While cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. made several plays against St. Brown, he also got beat when Williams split Stingley and safety M.J. Stewart for what looked like a touchdown pass from quarterback Jared Goff.
Another review showed his second foot was not in bounds, however.
Meanwhile, St. Brown was like a knife, cutting through the middle of the field. He caught two passes for touchdowns in the red zone.
“They’ve got a lot of speed on the Lions’ offense, so defensively you have to adjust,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. “You have to be able to react and stay on top and eliminate the explosives.”
A third attempt from Goff to St. Brown on a similar play was intercepted by second-year safety Calen Bullock. St. Brown, thinking he had another touchdown before Bullock jumped in front, playfully picked up Bullock before setting him down.
The two Texans standouts
While the Lions’ defense made plenty of plays against the Texans’ offense, they never had an answer for Nico Collins, who often found himself open for big gains.
But that was mostly the result from getting separation from the cornerbacks guarding him. The Texans probably should have gone to him more often.
The other standout was rookie Jaylin Noel, who made several plays in team drills, including a touchdown from Stroud in the corner of the end zone. He was dominant against the Lions' second-team defense.
Noel has displayed his playmaking ability all throughout camp. He’ll find some time on the field this season and should make an impact.
Two-minute drills end in stops
Both first-team offenses ended practice with the two-minute drills.
The Lions’ drive included a big play from tight end Sam LaPorta, but it ended at about the 18-yard line. The Lions were forced to kick a field goal.
The Texans’ drive ended at the Lions 35-yard line. It’s possible the officials missed a call. It appeared Stroud found Xavier Hutchinson for a deep gain that would have put them at about the 20-yard line.
But after intense discussion between two officials who appeared to disagree, Hutchinson was ruled out of bounds although it looked like he kept both feet in.
Texans kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn was forced to kick a deep field goal, which he made.
Xavier Hutchinson emerging
Hutchinson, who is entering his third season with the Texans, is finally starting to emerge as a legitimate weapon.
He’s become one of Stroud’s go-to options in recent weeks, which would be a huge boost for the former sixth-round pick.
“I’m super proud of him,” Stroud said. “He’s playing with the most confidence I’ve seen. He’s balling. He’s doing really well.”
Hutchinson made a big play in the Texans’ playoff win over the Chargers, when he caught a pass from Stroud on a broken play. He’s been finding ways to get open throughout camp, which is something he had struggled with in the past.
Christian Harris back, but Azeez Al-Shaair not practicing
Christian Harris is back practicing in pads. In his first full practice against another team, he made several plays. He had a run stop as well as a diving pass deflection.
Harris missed the first dozen practices of training camp and did not participate in the joint practices or preseason game against the Carolina Panthers as he recovered from a calf injury.
“Christian is doing a really nice job of working his way back into football shape,” Ryans said. “He’s in a really good spot right now.”
Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair did not practice Thursday.
It’s unclear what he is dealing with, but Ryans said Al-Shaair is dealing with something minor and will be fine moving forward.
Who won the practice?
While the Lions' offense got a few chunk plays on the Texans' defense, the defense was better as it neared the red zone and came up with a few stops. The Texans’ defense was also credited with two strip sacks, including one by edge rusher Will Anderson Jr.
Still, Goff and his receivers were able to have success and frustrate Houston’s secondary.
The Lions showed why they’ve been one of the NFL’s better teams over the past few years.
The Texans weren’t bad. They made improvements over the latter part of practice, which included getting into more of a rhythm on offense.
But if we’re grading who won, you’d have to give it to the Lions, who had just a little more success on both offense and defense.
Jayded
Footballguy
It’s upsetting how poorly this team continues to draft at TE. Even free agents find us middle of the pack from Daniels back in the day to Schultz now.
It’d be nice if we ever figured the position out. Still would have loved for them to take a shot at the Raiders’ Mayer, but I do still hope we figure it out sooner rather than later.
It’d be nice if we ever figured the position out. Still would have loved for them to take a shot at the Raiders’ Mayer, but I do still hope we figure it out sooner rather than later.
Major
Footballguy
Yep. I really wanted them to move up to get Warren. I'm so tired of these mid to late round fliers it seems like we're always taking to find our franchise TE.
I do have to give credit to Casserio for turning our WR position from desperation to one of depth. Seems like not too long ago we were going into 2025 with just Nico, Xavier and Metchie. Feeling pretty good about that position now. TE though, not so much
rockaction
Footballguy
Yep. I really wanted them to move up to get Warren. I'm so tired of these mid to late round fliers it seems like we're always taking to find our franchise TE.
I do have to give credit to Casserio for turning our WR position from desperation to one of depth. Seems like not too long ago we were going into 2025 with just Nico, Xavier and Metchie. Feeling pretty good about that position now. TE though, not so much
He built it right. WR and WR depth is crucial. It’s a necessary element.
TE is eminently puntable. Philly has a really good one they can’t use and won’t re-sign because they have two excellent wide outs and a running game. They’re a luxury. Bowers is a unicorn and what was the Raiders’ record?
The only truly special double-use TE in the past thirty years has been Gronk, and his genetics and upbringing were out of a James Cameron alien genetic grab bag. I think Kelce got a personal foul every time he went to hit anything. It’s not a premium position. Your GM isn’t chasing a mythical winged creature at TE. He likely knows he’s punting the position like most everybody.
Major
Footballguy
Yep. I really wanted them to move up to get Warren. I'm so tired of these mid to late round fliers it seems like we're always taking to find our franchise TE.
I do have to give credit to Casserio for turning our WR position from desperation to one of depth. Seems like not too long ago we were going into 2025 with just Nico, Xavier and Metchie. Feeling pretty good about that position now. TE though, not so much
He built it right. WR and WR depth is crucial. It’s a necessary element.
TE is eminently puntable. Philly has a really good one they can’t use and won’t re-sign because they have two excellent wide outs and a running game. They’re a luxury. Bowers is a unicorn and what was the Raiders’ record?
The only truly special double-use TE in the past thirty years has been Gronk, and his genetics and upbringing were out of a James Cameron alien genetic grab bag. I think Kelce got a personal foul every time he went to hit anything. It’s not a premium position. Your GM isn’t chasing a mythical winged creature at TE. He likely knows he’s punting the position like most everybody.
GATES!!!11111!!!!
Jayded
Footballguy
I don't think he does is part of my point. We keep using mid-round picks on the position, and especially so with projects. Either they need to invest or they need to punt. They keep playing footsie with the position and year after year we see wasted picks fade into obscurity.
Yep. I really wanted them to move up to get Warren. I'm so tired of these mid to late round fliers it seems like we're always taking to find our franchise TE.
I do have to give credit to Casserio for turning our WR position from desperation to one of depth. Seems like not too long ago we were going into 2025 with just Nico, Xavier and Metchie. Feeling pretty good about that position now. TE though, not so much
He built it right. WR and WR depth is crucial. It’s a necessary element.
TE is eminently puntable. Philly has a really good one they can’t use and won’t re-sign because they have two excellent wide outs and a running game. They’re a luxury. Bowers is a unicorn and what was the Raiders’ record?
The only truly special double-use TE in the past thirty years has been Gronk, and his genetics and upbringing were out of a James Cameron alien genetic grab bag. I think Kelce got a personal foul every time he went to hit anything. It’s not a premium position. Your GM isn’t chasing a mythical winged creature at TE. He likely knows he’s punting the position like most everybody.
2025 - Luke Lachey (7th round)
2024 - Cade Stover (4th round)
2022 - Teagan Quitoriano (5th round)
2021 - Brevin Jordan (5th round)
2019 - Kahale Warring (3rd round)
2018 - Jordan Akins (3rd round)
2014 - CJ Fiedorowicz (3rd round)
2013 - Ryan Griffin (6th round)
2010 - Garrett Graham (4th round)
2009 - Anthony Hill (4th round), James Casey (5th round)
2006 - Owen Daniels (4th round)
2003 - Bennie Joppru (2nd round)
Woof. Other than 2006, we've been terrible at drafting the position.
Major
Footballguy
I don't think he does is part of my point. We keep using mid-round picks on the position, and especially so with projects. Either they need to invest or they need to punt. They keep playing footsie with the position and year after year we see wasted picks fade into obscurity.
Yep. I really wanted them to move up to get Warren. I'm so tired of these mid to late round fliers it seems like we're always taking to find our franchise TE.
I do have to give credit to Casserio for turning our WR position from desperation to one of depth. Seems like not too long ago we were going into 2025 with just Nico, Xavier and Metchie. Feeling pretty good about that position now. TE though, not so much
He built it right. WR and WR depth is crucial. It’s a necessary element.
TE is eminently puntable. Philly has a really good one they can’t use and won’t re-sign because they have two excellent wide outs and a running game. They’re a luxury. Bowers is a unicorn and what was the Raiders’ record?
The only truly special double-use TE in the past thirty years has been Gronk, and his genetics and upbringing were out of a James Cameron alien genetic grab bag. I think Kelce got a personal foul every time he went to hit anything. It’s not a premium position. Your GM isn’t chasing a mythical winged creature at TE. He likely knows he’s punting the position like most everybody.
2025 - Luke Lachey (7th round)
2024 - Cade Stover (4th round)
2022 - Teagan Quitoriano (5th round)
2021 - Brevin Jordan (5th round)
2019 - Kahale Warring (3rd round)
2018 - Jordan Akins (3rd round)
2014 - CJ Fiedorowicz (3rd round)
2013 - Ryan Griffin (6th round)
2010 - Garrett Graham (4th round)
2009 - Anthony Hill (4th round), James Casey (5th round)
2006 - Owen Daniels (4th round)
2003 - Bennie Joppru (2nd round)
Woof. Other than 2006, we've been terrible at drafting the position.
Exactly my point. Houston homers get it. So damn frustrating.
rockaction
Footballguy
I don't think he does is part of my point. We keep using mid-round picks on the position, and especially so with projects. Either they need to invest or they need to punt. They keep playing footsie with the position and year after year we see wasted picks fade into obscurity.
Yep. I really wanted them to move up to get Warren. I'm so tired of these mid to late round fliers it seems like we're always taking to find our franchise TE.
I do have to give credit to Casserio for turning our WR position from desperation to one of depth. Seems like not too long ago we were going into 2025 with just Nico, Xavier and Metchie. Feeling pretty good about that position now. TE though, not so much
He built it right. WR and WR depth is crucial. It’s a necessary element.
TE is eminently puntable. Philly has a really good one they can’t use and won’t re-sign because they have two excellent wide outs and a running game. They’re a luxury. Bowers is a unicorn and what was the Raiders’ record?
The only truly special double-use TE in the past thirty years has been Gronk, and his genetics and upbringing were out of a James Cameron alien genetic grab bag. I think Kelce got a personal foul every time he went to hit anything. It’s not a premium position. Your GM isn’t chasing a mythical winged creature at TE. He likely knows he’s punting the position like most everybody.
2025 - Luke Lachey (7th round)
2024 - Cade Stover (4th round)
2022 - Teagan Quitoriano (5th round)
2021 - Brevin Jordan (5th round)
2019 - Kahale Warring (3rd round)
2018 - Jordan Akins (3rd round)
2014 - CJ Fiedorowicz (3rd round)
2013 - Ryan Griffin (6th round)
2010 - Garrett Graham (4th round)
2009 - Anthony Hill (4th round), James Casey (5th round)
2006 - Owen Daniels (4th round)
2003 - Bennie Joppru (2nd round)
Woof. Other than 2006, we've been terrible at drafting the position.
Fair enough. Point taken. If you’re drafting a guy every year you’d expect to hit.
GregR
Footballguy
Chronicle article predicting roster mentions they think Mixon will start on the NF Injury list.
And they think Watson is ahead of Berios but both might make the team at WR.
They have Irv Smith making the team at TE over Harrison Bryant.
Projected DB cuts include Myles Bryant, DeAngelo Ross.
They mention rookie safety Jaylen Reed likely going on IR.
And they think Watson is ahead of Berios but both might make the team at WR.
They have Irv Smith making the team at TE over Harrison Bryant.
Projected DB cuts include Myles Bryant, DeAngelo Ross.
They mention rookie safety Jaylen Reed likely going on IR.
GregR
Footballguy
TEXANS' 53-MAN ROSTER
Quarterbacks (3): C.J. Stroud, Davis Mills, Graham Mertz
Running backs (5): Nick Chubb, Dameon Pierce, Dare Ogunbowale, Woody Marks, British Brooks
Offensive tackles (4): Aireontae Ersery, Tytus Howard, Blake Fisher, Cam Robinson
Guards (3): Laken Tomlinson, Ed Ingram, Juice Scruggs
Center (2): Jake Andrews, Jarrett Patterson
Tight ends (2): Dalton Schultz, Cade Stover
Wide receivers (7): Nico Collins, Christian Kirk, Xavier Hutchinson, Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel, Braxton Berrios, Justin Watson
Defensive end (5): Will Anderson Jr., Danielle Hunter, Derek Barnett, Darrell Taylor, Dylan Horton
Defensive tackles (5): Sheldon Rankins, Mario Edwards, Foley Fatukasi, Tim Settle Jr., Tommy Togiai
Linebackers (6): Azeez Al-Shaair, Christian Harris, Henry To’oTo’o, E.J. Speed, Jamal Hill, Jake Hansen
Safety (3): C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Calen Bullock, M.J. Stewart
Nickel (1): Jalen Pitre
Cornerbacks (4): Derek Stingley Jr., Kamari Lassiter, Jaylin Smith, Tremon Smith
Special teams (3): K Ka’imi Fairbarin, P Tommy Townsend, LS Austin Brinkman
Physically unable to perform list: DE Denico Autry, DT Kurt Hinish, Tank Dell
Reserve/injured list (designated to return): S Jaylen Reed
Reserve/injured list: TE Irv Smith Jr., Juwann Winfree
Reserve/non-football injury list: Joe Mixon, Alijah Huzzle
Commissioner’s exempt list: Jimmie Ward
Highlighted a couple. Mertz at QB was a surprise. Media speculating they thought he'd be picked up if cut.
Only 2 tight ends. Won't be surprised if they have a third by the start of the season with some other move, or could wait until week 4 and bring Irv Smith back. Also, British Brooks could be used at FB and TE both as well as playing special teams. Harrison Bryant that they traded Metchie for, got cut.
CJ Gardner-Johnson being on the active roster might mean they expect him back soon. Otherwise he'd have had to sit 4 games. Myles Bryant, Jalen Mills and Russ Yeast were all cut at backup safety, but someone could come back for the practice squad.
Joe Mixon will have to miss at least 4 games.
Jimmie Ward going to the commish's list saves them a roster spot at least.
There are reports the Texans could trade Cam Robinson as they feel Erserie will be the starter. Also Trent Brown was cut but could come back to the practice squad or get re-signed if they traded Cam.
Quarterbacks (3): C.J. Stroud, Davis Mills, Graham Mertz
Running backs (5): Nick Chubb, Dameon Pierce, Dare Ogunbowale, Woody Marks, British Brooks
Offensive tackles (4): Aireontae Ersery, Tytus Howard, Blake Fisher, Cam Robinson
Guards (3): Laken Tomlinson, Ed Ingram, Juice Scruggs
Center (2): Jake Andrews, Jarrett Patterson
Tight ends (2): Dalton Schultz, Cade Stover
Wide receivers (7): Nico Collins, Christian Kirk, Xavier Hutchinson, Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel, Braxton Berrios, Justin Watson
Defensive end (5): Will Anderson Jr., Danielle Hunter, Derek Barnett, Darrell Taylor, Dylan Horton
Defensive tackles (5): Sheldon Rankins, Mario Edwards, Foley Fatukasi, Tim Settle Jr., Tommy Togiai
Linebackers (6): Azeez Al-Shaair, Christian Harris, Henry To’oTo’o, E.J. Speed, Jamal Hill, Jake Hansen
Safety (3): C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Calen Bullock, M.J. Stewart
Nickel (1): Jalen Pitre
Cornerbacks (4): Derek Stingley Jr., Kamari Lassiter, Jaylin Smith, Tremon Smith
Special teams (3): K Ka’imi Fairbarin, P Tommy Townsend, LS Austin Brinkman
Physically unable to perform list: DE Denico Autry, DT Kurt Hinish, Tank Dell
Reserve/injured list (designated to return): S Jaylen Reed
Reserve/injured list: TE Irv Smith Jr., Juwann Winfree
Reserve/non-football injury list: Joe Mixon, Alijah Huzzle
Commissioner’s exempt list: Jimmie Ward
Highlighted a couple. Mertz at QB was a surprise. Media speculating they thought he'd be picked up if cut.
Only 2 tight ends. Won't be surprised if they have a third by the start of the season with some other move, or could wait until week 4 and bring Irv Smith back. Also, British Brooks could be used at FB and TE both as well as playing special teams. Harrison Bryant that they traded Metchie for, got cut.
CJ Gardner-Johnson being on the active roster might mean they expect him back soon. Otherwise he'd have had to sit 4 games. Myles Bryant, Jalen Mills and Russ Yeast were all cut at backup safety, but someone could come back for the practice squad.
Joe Mixon will have to miss at least 4 games.
Jimmie Ward going to the commish's list saves them a roster spot at least.
There are reports the Texans could trade Cam Robinson as they feel Erserie will be the starter. Also Trent Brown was cut but could come back to the practice squad or get re-signed if they traded Cam.
GregR
Footballguy
Six Houston Texans have been named to the NFL Top 100 Players of 2025, the league’s annual list as voted on by their peers.
All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. earned the highest rank at No. 18. Following him are defensive end Danielle Hunter at No. 25, wide receiver Nico Collins at No. 32, quarterback C.J. Stroud at No. 39, defensive end Will Anderson Jr. at No. 46 and running back Joe Mixon at No. 58.
Former offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil also received a nod for his play with the Texans last season as he came it at No. 86. Tunsil was traded to the Washington Commanders in March for an assortment of draft picks.
The top 100 is based on play in 2024. The top 10 will be revealed on Sept. 1 on NFL Network at 7 p.m.
The total is the most the franchise has received since the list’s inaugural year in 2011. The previous high was five in 2013.
All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. earned the highest rank at No. 18. Following him are defensive end Danielle Hunter at No. 25, wide receiver Nico Collins at No. 32, quarterback C.J. Stroud at No. 39, defensive end Will Anderson Jr. at No. 46 and running back Joe Mixon at No. 58.
Former offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil also received a nod for his play with the Texans last season as he came it at No. 86. Tunsil was traded to the Washington Commanders in March for an assortment of draft picks.
The top 100 is based on play in 2024. The top 10 will be revealed on Sept. 1 on NFL Network at 7 p.m.
The total is the most the franchise has received since the list’s inaugural year in 2011. The previous high was five in 2013.
