Battle Red Blog
Texans football is just days away. While the front office continues to add new faces to the team due to injuries, several players on the roster have a lot on the line in the first preseason game. This list focuses on players who can make real strides in securing a role or even simply a roster spot based on their performance this Saturday. Rookies are included, but I try to keep this list to players on the knife’s edge of making the roster.
I’ve included each player’s jersey number so you can follow along during the game.
Houston’s newest DE pass rusher is in a volatile situation due to injuries and limited roster spots. He needs to take full advantage of this game with Autry and Barnett out. Both veterans are dealing with injuries and have yet to practice, which elevates Taylor to the clear-cut second string DE behind Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter. Another good outing on top of last Saturday’s game could solidify his spot while putting heat on the injured vets to return.
Based on the Texans recent depth chart, Berrios is projected to be cut from the roster. This is Berrios’ first training camp in Houston… and maybe his last. He has fallen behind rookie Jaylin Noel and veteran Christian Kirk for the slot receiver role. However, Berrios shined in the first preseason game, catching the team’s sole TD in the first series.
To make the roster, he must demonstrate he still has potential in the slot; being the best punt returner won’t cut it in this deep wide receiver room.
Stover’s rookie campaign was cut short due to a collarbone injury suffered in the Wild Card game. He’s returned healthy, but faces competition for reps. Houston drafted Luke Lachey in the seventh round to address run blocking woes, which Stover and the tight end committee struggled with in 2024. Stover needs to demonstrate his health, utility, and development in a crucial season for the second-year TE.
Plus, the news that Brevin Jordan is out for the season with another torn ACL means Stover is the TE2… but is he ready for that responsibility?
No player has disappointed more in training camp than Fisher. Currently, he’s running with the backups – even behind newly acquired OT Connor McDermott. On Monday, Scott wrote about Fisher already being labeled a bust. Rookie Aireentay Ersery has overtaken him as the starting right tackle, which is a tough look for last year’s second round pick to have already conceded. Fisher is desperate to demonstrate his development as a right tackle prospect. I’ve been curious if a move to right guard is feasible, but that has yet to be tested by the coaching staff.
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