The Houston Texans are preparing to face the Carolina Panthers in their last preseason game, but head coach DeMeco Ryans has confirmed that none of the starters will participate. This decision follows a joint practice with the Panthers, which allowed the Texans to assess their first unit earlier in the week.
Throughout the preseason, the starters have had limited game time. Quarterback C.J. Stroud and running back Woody Marks each played only one drive against the Las Vegas Raiders last week. The starting offensive line has been on the field for just two drives across the preseason, while the starting defense has yet to take the field.
Ryans noted that the choice to rest the starters is deliberate, as the team is pleased with their performance in practice. Injuries to key players, such as wide receiver Jayden Higgins and offensive tackle Braden Smith, may have also contributed to this cautious approach.
As a result, backups like quarterbacks Davis Mills and Brett Rypien are expected to play against the Panthers, providing a final chance for players to prove themselves before the Texans finalize their 53-man roster.
The Texans will kick off the regular season against the Buffalo Bills at Reliant Stadium, where starters are anticipated to make their first appearance of the season.
