Battle Red Blog
Whose stock is up and whose is down after one week of Houston Texans Training Camp
The Texans are one week into training camp and there are plenty of storylines already unfolding. Most notably, Joe Mixon’s absence completely derailed the running back position and created a full-fledged battle for the starting role. The offensive line has, as expected, weighed down the entire offense and been the worst unit at camp. Then there’s the lingering injury of linebacker Christian Harris, who has yet to practice or suit up at all.
Today, we are evaluating the top movers and shakers on the roster since the start of training camp. These are players whose stock has moved the most in the past week and are in significantly better or worse situations than when the week began. This can be due to extenuating circumstances such as other injuries or from their own impressive performance thus far.
The fourth-round running back’s unique skillset has been on full display. No other player’s stock has improved more than Marks due to a combination of other’s injuries and his own play. Radio hosts Landry Locker and John Harris cited Marks as an MVP from the first week on offense. While I initially predicted him to make the roster in the first edition of this year’s Rosterology, his role feels much more clear than a week ago.Marks can unlock parts of new offensive coordinator Nick Caley’s playbook that will include “a lot of creativity”.
With Joe Mixon sidelined, Marks has moved up to the second or third string running back. Those added reps are critical to his development and inclusion in the offense. With our without Mixon, hopefully Marks can continue to carve a role for himself this training camp.
Derek Barnett signed a one-year, $5M contract with the Texans this offseason, but has spent the entirety of training camp on the PUP List. In his stead, Dylan Horton and free agent signee Darrell Taylor have stepped up.
Barnett was a key rotational piece on the defensive line last season and racked up five sacks, the most he’s had since 2020. However, if he’s unhealthy and falling behind in the rotation, there may not be a chance to regain his role in 2025.
Noel has impressed on the field in a multitude of roles. Many slated Noel as “next year’s slot receiver” while Christian Kirk holds down the role, but the rookie has been pushing Kirk for the position right out of the gate. He also is returning punts on special teams, where he is most likely to have an immediate impact.
The first preseason game against the Vikings will provide insight into the Texans’ plan to utilize Noel. Similar to Marks, this rookie needs to create a role for himself in a crowded positional group.
On day six of training camp, Scruggs was seen...
