The Texans used their 20-10 preseason setback to spotlight youth and depth rather than showcase seasoned starters. E.J. Speed surged all over the field, delivering a big hit and two coverage plays, signaling he’ll be on the field this season even if he doesn’t start. Aireontae Ersery and Jake Andrews opened massive running lanes on the first Texans drive, with Davis Mills efficient (4-of-5, 50 yards, TD) behind a coherent push from the first-team line. Dare Ogunbowale averaged close to six yards per carry, Braxton Berrios looked healthy in his return and accounted for a TD and return work, and Braxton Berrios showed versatility as a weapon after ACL rehab. Braxton’s early impact could help him push for a spot. Blake Fisher, by contrast, struggled mightily—false starts, six pressures, a half-sack—cementing his precarious status as trade-season looms. The safety corps is also thinning with C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s knee issue, forcing Russ Yeast to play essentially the entire game and M.J. Stewart to log significant snaps. The Texans face roster decisions on several bubble players as Saturday underscored who’s rising and who’s falling while plans for the offensive line, pass protection, and safety depth tighten ahead of Cut Day.

The Houston Texans are gearing up for their 2025 season opener with just 45 days to go before they face off against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. The countdown features an exploration of players who have donned the iconic No. 45 jersey since the team's inception in 2002.

Currently, No. 45 is held by linebacker E.J. Speed, who recently transitioned from the Indianapolis Colts. After two impressive seasons, including a standout 142-tackle performance last year, Speed aims to solidify his role in the Texans' defense alongside Azeez Al-Shaair. Other notable players to have worn No. 45 include Devin White, Obo Okoronkwo, and Jay Prosch, though none have quite matched Speed's recent impact on the field.

The Indianapolis Colts are poised to add two compensatory draft picks to their haul for the 2026 NFL Draft. Following the recent free agency period, where the Colts lost more compensatory free agents than they signed, they are projected to benefit from the NFL's compensatory selection formula. The Colts lost five compensatory free agents, including notable names like Joe Flacco and E.J. Speed, while only three of their own signings, Charvarius Ward and Cam Bynum among them, counted as compensatory. Though several signings canceled each other out, the Colts will receive two seventh-round picks as a reward for their net losses.

In total, the Colts will now hold nine selections in the upcoming draft, enhancing their ability to strategically improve their roster. The compensatory pick system is a significant aspect of NFL operations, rewarding teams for player departures and encouraging competitive balance. The Colts' draft strategy could benefit from this additional capital, allowing them to address immediate needs and build for the future.

After the 2025 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts are facing lingering concerns, especially surrounding their linebacker position. The team opted to select Hunter Wohler, a safety from Wisconsin, in the seventh round, intending to transition him into a linebacker role. This choice raises questions about depth and capability at a position crucial for defensive coverage, particularly with EJ Speed now with the Houston Texans.

General Manager Chris Ballard expressed confidence in second-year linebacker Jaylon Carlies, highlighting his effectiveness in limited playing time last season. However, with only 242 career defensive snaps, the transition of Carlies to a starting role is fraught with uncertainty. Additionally, the Colts’ new defensive scheme under Lou Anarumo emphasizes versatility and may require more from its linebacking core than previously expected.

The Indianapolis Colts have made significant strides in the NFL draft, particularly with their first-round selection of tight end Tyler Warren, targeting a key roster hole. However, several pressing needs remain as they head into the second day of the draft. The team could address the loss of E.J. Speed by looking for a coverage linebacker to complement Pro Bowler Zaire Franklin.

Additionally, there's a need for offensive line depth due to free-agent departures, and a running back to support Jonathan Taylor in a deep positional draft class is crucial. Defensive line upgrades are also a priority, with a focus on finding impactful players to join DeForest Buckner and bolster the pass rush. As such, the Colts will be weighing their options carefully to maximize their second-day opportunities.