Last week, Houston Texans third-year receiver John Metchie III finally scored his first official touchdown in the NFL.
A week later, it was time for Troy Hairston to punch it in for six.
Hairston caught a swing pass from Tim Boyle on the opening play of the second quarter in Saturday’s preseason contest against the Los Angeles Rams for a 5-yard touchdown to give Houston a 10-7 lead.
Troy Hairston punches it into the end zone 👊
📺: ABC13 pic.twitter.com/rEgz1rz1o0
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 24, 2024
Hairston, who missed all of last season after suffering a neck injury in practice, is competing for a spot on the active roster. Fullback Andrew Beck might be a lock to make the roster, but Hariston’s value on special teams could push him ahead of newcomer Nick Bawden.
As a rookie still learning how to play the role, Hairston flashed potential in Pep Hamilton’s zone-based scheme. Mostly used on third-down routes, the former Central Michigan linebacker finished with five catches for 19 yards.
Snow angels for the tuddy ❄️#EasyToCelebrate pic.twitter.com/9V8SOPIdPW
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 24, 2024
The Texans likely will only carry five running backs — including a fullback— on the active roster. Even if Hariston doesn’t make it on the active roster, he’ll be a top candidate to stick around on the practice squad.
