Week 4 divisional clash between the Texans and Titans hinges on injures. Derek Stingley Jr. is questionable with an oblique; if he sits, Kamari Lassiter and Tremon Smith slide into bigger boundary duties and Houston’s defense could feel the boost on the perimeter. Jakob Johnson’s IR designation further thins Houston’s depth at fullback. Tennessee plays shorthanded on the line and at receiver, with JC Latham out, Bryce Oliver out, Dorian Mausi questionable and Kevin Winston Jr. doubtful, which pressure their rushing and passing plans.

For fantasy, Stingley’s status tilts this game toward boundary-market players in Houston and outside targets for Tennessee. If Stingley plays, Houston’s corners stabilize and DFS value shifts toward Stroud-fueled plays and balanced attack; if not, Lassiter and Smith become higher-upside plays and the Titans can exploit the Houston secondary. The week’s news will shape rostering decisions and in-game lineups as kickoff approaches.

Derek Stingley Jr. is questionable for Sunday's home game against Tennessee after an oblique injury, with limited practice and a day-to-day tag lingering. If he can’t go, Tremon Smith would slide into a starting role after a solid relief effort vs Jacksonville, holding opponents to a minimal six-target, one-catch-for-2-yards line and drawing coach praise.

Houston also placed fullback Jakob Johnson on IR with a hamstring issue, thinning a position that often helps protect a rookie quarterback. Tennessee’s air attack has been inefficient, which could keep Houston’s defense squarely in play and elevate Smith’s fantasy and DFS upside if Stingley sits or rotates in limited snaps.

Howard’s return to practice signals a full, stable Texans offensive line for the Titans game, while Stingley’s oblique injury clouds Houston’s secondary depth after Gardner‑Johnson’s release. If Stingley can’t go, Tremon Smith and M.J. Stewart would start, testing a thinner back end. Thursday in‑pads will be a key gauge of readiness. The showdown with Tennessee heightens the urgency to stabilize the pass defense and protect the pocket against a mid‑season test.