J.J. McCarthy's era in Minnesota has begun with a measured, low-risk return. He entered for one drive, completing 4 of 7 passes for 30 yards and guiding the Vikings to a field goal in a 20-10 win that underscored the preseason's evaluative purpose rather than scoreboard drama. The limited sample size still hints at progress in footwork, timing, and decision cadence that fantasy managers watch closely as the regular season approaches.

Houston's QB depth chart looked more fluid, as the Texans rested starters and cycled Davis Mills, Kedon Slovis, and Graham Mertz. Ed Ingram stood out upfront, the highest-graded offensive player in the early reads, signaling a sturdier bridge for Houston's retooled line. Across the field, young linemen such as Joe Huber and Aireontae Ersery and rookies like Kobe King and Jackson Woodard drew meaningful snaps, offering tiny but meaningful signals for late-season dynasty and fantasy futures. PFF will finalize the full grades after tomorrow's review, but the early snap counts and grading whispers point toward deeper depth pieces shaping both teams' rosters and fantasy targets as the season nears.