CJ Gardner-Johnson is set to start Houston's opener vs. the Rams after knee rehab, a big boost to a secondary that’s already among the league’s best. Expect his leadership, physical play, and playmaking to lift Houston’s coverage and turnover potential in a must-win season kickoff.

The swap that sent Green to Philadelphia for Gardner-Johnson reshaped Houston’s defense; Green’s move to PHI was part of a deal that underscored Gardner-Johnson’s impact in Houston’s back line. M.J. Stewart called Gardner-Johnson a swag-filled, fierce competitor who helps anchor the unit.

Texans writers offer a fresh take on Detroit Lions vs Houston Texans joint practices, highlighting Nico Collins’ burst past Detroit’s secondary and a Texans WR group that could threaten Detroit’s corners. Houston’s Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams tested Houston’s top cover men, while Aidan Hutchinson battled Tytus Howard in a stiffer edge duel. Lions’ second-string defenders faced budding Texans, including Xavier Hutchinson, with some flashes from Jaylin Noel. Overall, observers gave the Lions a small edge, but Houston built momentum late, suggesting both units could offer fantasy angles as the season nears.

Key standouts: Collins’ big gains against Stingley and Stewart, Hutchinson's reps against Howard, Howard’s late-day surge, and Hutchinson’s evolving role for Houston. The outsiders' lens also underscored Lions’ receivers holding their own, while Texans showcased depth at WR and a developing OL-EDGE dynamic. The practice served as a window into Week 1 fuel: Houston’s WRs could surprise, Detroit’s offense flashed, and both teams left with tangible questions and promising answers ahead of the season.

CJ Gardner-Johnson could be back in time for Week 1 against the Rams after further knee tests showed the injury wasn’t as severe as feared. Houston had feared ACL damage, but doctors reportedly found the ligament intact, leaving a realistic shot at Week 1 availability.

The Texans acquired Gardner-Johnson last offseason in a March deal that sent Kenyon Green to Philadelphia, a move designed to fortify the secondary after Eric Murray left in free agency. If Garder-Johnson suits up, Houston’s defense would get a major boost; if not, veteran M.J. Stewart or versatile newcomer Myles Bryant would step in, with Ryans praising Bryant’s daily readiness.

Gardner-Johnson produced 35 tackles and six interceptions last season and has 13 picks since 2022, underscoring the depth his absence would test. The injury occurred amid a drill with John Metchie III, a Texans receiver who figures prominently in Houston’s offense. Week 1 against the Rams becomes a pivotal early-season test for a defense trying to steady itself after the CJGJ scare and the Green trade.

Tytus Howard, starting left guard for the Houston Texans, is set to make his playoff debut against the Los Angeles Chargers after missing previous opportunities due to injuries. Drafted in 2019, Howard has been part of three playoff squads but has yet to play in a postseason game. His enthusiasm for this moment is palpable, contrasting his experiences of watching from the sidelines.

Last year, after suffering a knee injury, Howard remained engaged with the team by attending meetings and staying close during rehab. His approach reflects a commitment to contributing in any way possible, and it highlights the bond among teammates, even when they’re sidelined.

The Houston Texans secured a pivotal 20-12 victory over the Miami Dolphins, highlighted by a crucial fourth-and-2 fake punt play in the third quarter. M.J. Stewart received the snap and handed off to Dare Ogunbowale, who advanced to the Dolphins' 9-yard line, setting up a touchdown connection between C.J. Stroud and Nico Collins.

This strategic move not only shifted momentum but also provided the Texans with a vital cushion, as their offense had struggled otherwise during the game.