Texans Training Camp Opens with Injury Concerns, Offensive Struggles, and Spotlight on Stroud

HOSUTON — The first week of Houston Texans training camp has brought a mix of cautious optimism and clear areas for improvement. 

With a large number of projected starters sidelined and an offense still finding its rhythm, head coach DeMeco Ryans and new offensive coordinator Nick Caley are already navigating a demanding set of circumstances.

Quarterback C.J. Stroud, entering his third NFL season, remains the center of attention. After an inconsistent 2024 campaign, Stroud has shown flashes of growth—especially during red zone drills—but continues to face pressure due to a shaky offensive line. 

On Monday, the unit showed marginal improvement in pass protection, allowing Stroud time to find targets in 11-on-11 reps. Still, a near interception to rookie safety Calen Bullock on the run reminded everyone that the line remains a concern.

Stroud’s challenges were compounded earlier in camp when he threw a pick-six to linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, and timing issues with receivers led to stalled drives. Pro Bowl pass rushers Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter were dominant, routinely breaking through the line and stifling run plays.

Compounding the offensive struggles is the growing list of injuries. 

Notably, Joe Mixon (NFI list) and Tank Dell (PUP list) are both out, leaving key voids. Dell’s return is uncertain following his season-ending knee injury in December, while Mixon’s absence could stretch further than anticipated. In Mixon’s place, veteran back Nick Chubb has taken first-team reps. While once among the league’s elite, Chubb is working to regain form and stabilize Houston’s ground game. His performance will be vital, especially behind an offensive line that remains in flux. 

A Thursday miscue by second-year tackle Blake Fisher—who jumped early on a snap—highlighted the unit’s inconsistency. Coaches benched Fisher immediately after the mistake, signaling a low tolerance for errors moving forward.

The Texans’ expected starting offensive line of Cam Robinson, Laken Tomlinson, Jake Andrews, Tytus Howard, and Fisher has potential, but remains unproven. As Stroud shoulders more responsibility, the line’s ability to protect him will determine how high this team can climb.

Despite the early hurdles, the Texans remain optimistic. In a weaker AFC South, Houston still holds playoff potential—but development must accelerate quickly for the team to meet its rising expectations.