In preparation for their final preseason game against the Carolina Panthers, the Houston Texans will rest all starters, according to head coach DeMeco Ryans. This decision follows a joint practice earlier in the week, which allowed the team to assess their first unit's performance in a controlled environment.
Throughout the preseason, the starters have had limited playtime. Quarterback C.J. Stroud and running back Woody Marks participated in just one drive during the previous game against the Las Vegas Raiders. The offensive line has only been on the field for two drives across both preseason games, and the starting defense has yet to take the field this preseason.
Ryans explained that the choice to rest starters is deliberate, as the team is confident in their performance from the joint practice. Injuries to key players, including wide receiver Jayden Higgins and offensive tackle Braden Smith, have also contributed to the decision to minimize injury risk.
As the Texans gear up for the regular season, backups, including quarterbacks Davis Mills and Brett Rypien, are expected to lead the team against the Panthers. This game will be a critical opportunity for players to demonstrate their abilities before the Texans finalize their 53-man roster.
The Texans will open their regular season against the Buffalo Bills at Reliant Stadium, where starters are anticipated to play.
