Houston’s offense appears to have found its stride in training camp as C.J. Stroud and the first unit pushed the field during Tuesday’s practice, following an encouraging 6-for-8 preseason showing with a five-yard TD to Nico Collins. Stroud hit Hutchinson on a notable 7-on-7 anticipatory throw and threaded a team-downfield sequence in 11-on-11, culminating in a field-flipping connection to Justin Watson. The unit also moved the chains on third and fourth downs in a late two-minute drill, while the defense notched sacks from Will Anderson Jr., Christian Harris and Derek Barnett. Houston kept the ball clean, a welcome shift from early camp turnover-prone days.

Offensive coordinator Nick Caley signaled a settled-but-fluid approach up front, with Aireontae Ersery, Laken Tomlinson, Jake Andrews, Ed Ingram and Ty Howard forming a veteran-to-rookie mix at tackle and guard spots. The starting five remains under evaluation as Caley emphasized physicality to control the line. On the interior, Cam Robinson’s return and reps with the second unit kept the options open as the Texans weigh their up-front identity. On defense, the injury rehab progress of C.J. Gardner-Johnson adds intrigue around Week 1, while Caley announced a sideline role for himself to boost immediacy with players.

The Tennessee Titans face a pressing concern in their rivalry with the Houston Texans, identified as defensive end Derek Barnett, who has consistently excelled against them since joining the Texans in 2023. Despite being drafted in the first round in 2017, Barnett's career didn't take off as expected. However, his performance against the Titans has been remarkable, tallying 16 pressures and five sacks across four encounters, achieving an impressive 84.6 PFF grade in each game.

This rivalry is particularly intense, with both teams having met ten times since 2020, resulting in an even split. The Titans' record against the Texans has waned, losing four of their last five matchups. Barnett's ability to disrupt plays and pressure the quarterback has made him a significant thorn in the Titans' side, raising questions about their defensive strategies moving forward.

Derek Barnett is emerging as a key player for the Houston Texans in 2025. Initially drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles as a first-round pick, Barnett's move to the Texans saw him become an underrated pass-rusher, often overshadowed by stars like Will Anderson Jr. and Derek Stingley Jr. Despite being the Texans' No. 3 pass-rusher, his skills would likely earn him a starting position on many other teams. His ability to impact games from the defensive line is becoming more recognized, making him a player to watch as the season progresses.

The Houston Texans have announced the return of defensive end Derek Barnett, who has signed a one-year deal worth $5 million. Barnett, 28, had a productive season with the Texans last year, amassing five sacks, seven quarterback hits, and 26 combined tackles. This signing marks a continued commitment by the Texans to fortify their defensive line, aiming for more impactful performances in the upcoming season.