Texans claimed Brenden Bates off the Browns’ practice squad after Cleveland’s 0-2 start, signaling Houston’s push to supplement C.J. Stroud’s tight end options. Bates has yet to log a stat in the NFL. Browns filled the open practice squad spot after Cade Stover’s IR injury, and with Green Bay looming, Cleveland’s TE depth could shift quickly as the season progresses.

Texans shore up the secondary by signing Ajani Carter to the practice squad and adding veteran Jalen Mills, a move aimed at Week 3's matchup.

Carter, Houston-born and undrafted, played 11 games for Houston in 2024 and logged 22 tackles with three passes defended; the Chiefs cut him in August.

Brenden Bates is being promoted to the active roster, Justin Watson lands on IR with an Achilles injury, and Houston now fields five defensive backs: Mills, Carter, Bryant, Ross, and Arnette.

The Browns added 16 players to their practice squad after Week 1, including Bailey Zappe, Trayveon Williams, and Malachi Corley. Corley and Cole Strange — a 2024 third-round pick and a 2022 first-round pick — landed on the practice squad rather than the 53-man roster, signaling a focus on developmental depth with room for a future lift. Roy Mbaeteka’s IPP spot remains, offering Cleveland a potential call-back option if the roster shifts. The group showcases a mix of veteran-relevant depth and young upside as Cleveland eyes a Week 1 clash with Cincinnati.

Fantasy managers should monitor Corley and Strange for potential elevation if injuries arise or if the Browns lean on developmental talent to grow chemistry behind the starters. The 16-man slate also adds key depth at QB, RB, WR, TE, OL, DL, LB, CB, and S, creating a few wildcard plays for late-season or depth-dependent rosters. The IPP slot remains a quiet wild card to watch as the Browns balance immediate needs with future potential>.

As NFL training camps approach, several players from the Greater Cincinnati area are primed to make a significant impact, showcasing their skills and ambitions. Notable names include Derrick Barnes of the Detroit Lions, who recently secured a hefty contract extension. Meanwhile, Brenden Bates has found a home with the Cleveland Browns after a tumultuous journey through the league. Demeer Blankumsee, now with the New England Patriots, is also aiming for his first career reception after a strong collegiate performance.

Other players like Jackson Carman, who previously won a national title with Clemson, are looking to revitalize their careers; Carman is now with the Miami Dolphins after a stint with the Bengals. Defensive standouts Bryan Cook and Mike Edwards are making waves with the Kansas City Chiefs, bringing a wealth of experience from their championship runs. Newcomers like Zeke Correll of the Minnesota Vikings and Kaleb Johnson of the Pittsburgh Steelers are also asserting themselves, showing the depth and talent that Greater Cincinnati continues to produce.

The Cleveland Browns have initiated their Organized Team Activities (OTAs), showcasing the promising talents of rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Known for his accuracy, Sanders impressed during a throwing session, particularly with a stunning touchdown pass that highlighted his precision and arm strength. He connected beautifully with tight end Brenden Bates, demonstrating his ability to read defenses and make critical plays under pressure. The competition for the starting quarterback position is intense, with Sanders joining established names to vie for the top spot.