As the Houston Texans gear up for their first preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings on September 7, the team’s depth chart has been released, offering a glimpse into the current roster configuration.
**Quarterbacks**
C.J. Stroud is set to lead the team as the starter, supported by reserves Davis Mills, Graham Mertz, and Kedon Slovis. The Texans brought Mertz on board with the aim of molding him into a new version of Case Keenum, and he is currently favored for the No. 3 quarterback role.
**Running Backs**
Nick Chubb takes the lead as the starter, with Dameon Pierce and Dare Ogunbowale also in the mix alongside Woody Marks. This unit will change as Joe Mixon returns to full health, impacting the competition for starting reps between Chubb and Pierce.
**Wide Receivers**
The starting trio consists of Nico Collins, Christian Kirk, and Jayden Higgins, with reserves including Jaylin Noel, Xavier Hutchinson, and several others. Depending on Higgins’ performance, Noel could find himself moving up the ranks. John Metchie’s position as WR7 could leave him at risk if he fails to stand out during the preseason.
**Tight Ends**
Dalton Schultz headlines the tight end group, supported by Cade Stover and Brevin Jordan. Irv Smith Jr. is also in the mix, but likely will not see significant action if he makes the roster. Stover’s performance in the upcoming game could determine his standing against Schultz.
**Offensive Line**
The starting offensive line features Cam Robinson, Laken Tomlinson, Jarrett Patterson, Tytus Howard, and Tay Ersery. The race for the center position continues to heat up, with Jake Andrews potentially taking the lead if Robinson’s injury sidelines him.
**Defense**
On the defensive front, the starters include Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, with Darrell Taylor and others as reserves. The return of Derek Barnett adds an interesting dynamic to this position group. Meanwhile, Sheldon Rankins and Mario Edwards Jr. are the starting defensive tackles.
**Linebackers and Secondary**
Azeez Al-Shaair and Henry To’oTo’o lead the linebackers, while cornerback starters include Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter, with Jalen Pitre in the nickel role. Jaylin Smith, a standout during training camp, has proven to be a valuable asset and could be called upon should any starters be unavailable.
**Special Teams**
In the special teams category, the starters consist of kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn, long snapper Austin Brinkman, and punter Tommy Townsend.
While the depth chart is subject to adjustments—especially with the necessary changes due to the PUP and NFI lists—the upcoming preseason game will provide critical opportunities for players to secure their positions. This season’s training camp has sparked optimism about potential breakout performances, particularly with young talents eager to make their mark. As the Texans continue to refine their roster, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching for standout talents in the preseason games.