Houston Texans

Houston Texans running back Dameon Pierce started the preseason game against the New York Giants but struggled to make an impact, managing only four carries for five yards. Pierce averaged a disappointing 1.3 yards per carry, failing to show any improvement from his previous performance. In contrast, Cam Akers, serving as his primary backup, ran for 29 yards on six carries, including a long of 14 yards. Akers, who was signed at the beginning of training camp, has quickly emerged as a legitimate roster contender, transforming from a camp body into a potential backup to Joe Mixon. His familiarity with offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik's scheme has helped him catch up despite joining late. J.J. Taylor led the Texans' running backs with 36 yards on five carries, and rookie British Brooks scored two fourth-quarter touchdowns. However, with both Taylor and Brooks unlikely to make the final roster, the primary focus for the Texans will be the competition for Mixon's backup role.

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud delivered a strong performance in his second preseason game against the New York Giants, although the offense didn't score while he was on the field. Stroud led the Texans downfield on the opening drive effectively, but the team failed to convert a fourth down on the Giants' 6-yard line. Stroud showcased impressive command and appeared to be in midseason form. The Texans' strategy this year seems to focus heavily on the passing game, as they passed ten times and rushed only four times in the first quarter with starters. This approach bodes well for Stroud's fantasy prospects, indicating significant passing volume. Stroud finished the game 7-of-10 for 88 yards. If he's done for the preseason, his overall stats will be 9-of-14 for 129 yards and one touchdown. Stroud has a solid opportunity to be a top-five fantasy quarterback this year, but his lack of rushing may limit his overall ceiling.

Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon (quad) returned to practice on Sunday following a multi-week absence, according to a video from Aaron Wilson of KPRC2. Acquired from the Cincinnati Bengals during the offseason, Mixon now appears to be 100 percent and on track to lead the Houston backfield when the NFL season kicks off in a few weeks. Dameon Pierce may push to earn some touches in 2024, but Mixon, who tallied 1,410 scrimmage yards and 12 touchdowns last year, is their lead back and should be valued accordingly. He's a fringe top-12 running back in redraft fantasy football leagues.

Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell was not on the field during the team's two-receiver sets, with Nico Collins and Stefon Diggs handling those roles. Most teams maintain a consistent pair of receivers for these formations, but the Texans rotated their wideouts frequently last season. While Dell may not see as much action in two-receiver sets compared to Collins and Diggs, his impact remains strong. This didn't impact Dell significantly, as he caught a 34-yard touchdown pass from C.J. Stroud midway through the first quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Although Dell's fantasy value might take a slight hit due to his limited role in two-receiver sets, the Texans are likely to use three-receiver formations frequently, which should provide ample opportunities for him.

Houston Texans rookie tight end Cade Stover led all tight ends in the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers with three catches for 32 yards. His performance featured a crucial 16-yard reception that helped secure a key first down and contributed to a Texans touchdown. Notably, Stover caught C.J. Stroud's first pass of the game, demonstrating Stroud's confidence in him despite Stover not being the primary read. Texans coach DeMeco Ryans and general manager Nick Caserio have praised Stover highly, suggesting that although Dalton Schultz is the top tight end, Stover could have a significant role early in the season. This development makes Schultz a less appealing late-round fantasy option and positions Stover as a potentially valuable pickup if Schultz misses any time.