5 Texans to consider for fantasy football in preseason vs. Patriots

The Houston Texans are gearing up for another season, and while the team may not be out of its rebuilding phase just yet, new coach DeMeco Ryans’ squad presents some fascinating opportunities in fantasy football. With a top-tier rookie quarterback, known quantity at running back, and deploying a run-heavy scheme, the pieces are coming together to figure out who can be a stud in offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik’s system.

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QB C.J. Stroud

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Stroud is the new starting quarterback for the Texans, and he has the potential to be a star in fantasy football. He’s a big, strong-armed passer with a quick release, and he has a lot of unknown weapons to throw to but with Stroud’s accuracy and the run game being so impactful, Stroud should have a decent fantasy year. Really excited to watch him execute tonight versus the Patriots.

RB Dameon Pierce

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Pierce is a versatile running back who can catch the ball out of the backfield. He’s not the fastest runner, but he’s tough and has good vision. His game reminds me a little of former NFL running back Marshawn Lynch. Pierce runs threw you and with force. He could be a solid fantasy option in PPR leagues.

WR Nico Collins

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Collins is a big, physical receiver out of the University of Michigan who has the potential to be a WR1 in fantasy football. He had an ok rookie season catching the ball 37 times for 481 receiving yards and adding two touchdowns in 2022. Collins is going to get better and he now has a legit quarterback throwing to him. Will be interesting to see Collins and Stroud connect tonight against the Patriots.

RB Xazavian Valladay

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Valladay is a player I am very eager to watch against the New England Patriots. Watching his tape the former Arizona State stud RB has a lot of upside and could be sneaky in dynasty leagues this season. In his last season at Arizona State, Valladay rushed for 1,192 yards and scored 16 touchdowns in 2022. I understand the running back room in Houston is full but Valladay could be used at kick returns or punt returns until the right opportunity arrises.

WR Tank Dell

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Dell is one of my personal favorites to watch tonight and in fantasy. While Tank is only 5-8 on the field he makes up for with his explosive cut backs and route running. I like to say a Tyreke Hill version 2.0. Dell ran a 4.49 at the combine and had 109 receptions in 2022 at the University of Houston. The former Cougar also caught for 1,398 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns. Dell is a hidden gem especially in dynasty or deeper leagues.

What about the hidden gems? There may be some worth keeping an eye on as the Texans take on the New England Patriots Thursday night in the first preseason game for either side. Here are five to consider.