{"id":392489,"date":"2026-07-30T20:33:13","date_gmt":"2026-07-30T20:33:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/392489\/"},"modified":"2026-07-30T20:33:13","modified_gmt":"2026-07-30T20:33:13","slug":"houston-texans-jake-hansens-injury-tests-linebacker-depth-at-camp","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/392489\/","title":{"rendered":"Houston Texans: Jake Hansen&#8217;s injury tests linebacker depth at camp"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img alt=\"Houston Texans defensive tackle Tommy Togiai (72) runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"eager\" fetchpriority=\"high\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans defensive tackle Tommy Togiai (72) runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans quarterback Graham Mertz (18) throws a pass during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans quarterback Graham Mertz (18) throws a pass during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, right, works with his players during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, right, works with his players during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, right, works with his players during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, right, works with his players during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, right, works with quarterback Davis Mills (10) and tight end Brevin Jordan (9) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, right, works with quarterback Davis Mills (10) and tight end Brevin Jordan (9) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans cornerbacks Derek Stingley Jr. (24) and Kamari Lassiter (3) stand on the sidelines between drills during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans cornerbacks Derek Stingley Jr. (24) and Kamari Lassiter (3) stand on the sidelines between drills during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) makes a catch against cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. (24) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) makes a catch against cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. (24) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans running back David Montgomery, left, runs the ball against linebacker Henry To'oto'o (39) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans running back David Montgomery, left, runs the ball against linebacker Henry To&#8217;oto&#8217;o (39) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) makes a throw during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) makes a throw during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans running back David Montgomery, left, runs the ball against linebacker Azeez al-Shaair (0) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans running back David Montgomery, left, runs the ball against linebacker Azeez al-Shaair (0) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans running back Woody Marks runs upfield after making a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans running back Woody Marks runs upfield after making a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) makes a throw during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) makes a throw during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans offensive coordinator Nick Caley, left, works with quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans offensive coordinator Nick Caley, left, works with quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"A tribute to Houston Texans co-founder Janice McNair, who died on July 14 at the age of 89, is posted next to the practice field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A tribute to Houston Texans co-founder Janice McNair, who died on July 14 at the age of 89, is posted next to the practice field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) works with his fellow defensive linemen during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) works with his fellow defensive linemen during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans offensive linemen work on blocking drills during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans offensive linemen work on blocking drills during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans tackle Braden Smith (71) works with guard Keylan Rutledge (66) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans tackle Braden Smith (71) works with guard Keylan Rutledge (66) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans quarterbacks C.J. Stroud (7) and Davis Mills (10) takes snaps during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans quarterbacks C.J. Stroud (7) and Davis Mills (10) takes snaps during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans wide receivers Jayden Higgins (81), Nico Collins (12) and Jared Wayne (89) pause between drills during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans wide receivers Jayden Higgins (81), Nico Collins (12) and Jared Wayne (89) pause between drills during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans guard Keylan Rutledge (66)  works with offensive tackle Derrick Graham (73) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans guard Keylan Rutledge (66)  works with offensive tackle Derrick Graham (73) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans guard Keylan Rutledge (66)  works with offensive tackle Derrick Graham (73) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans guard Keylan Rutledge (66)  works with offensive tackle Derrick Graham (73) during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans quarterbacks Davis Mills (10) and C.J. Stroud (7) throw passes during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans quarterbacks Davis Mills (10) and C.J. Stroud (7) throw passes during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans quarterbacks Davis Mills (10) and C.J. Stroud (7) throw passes during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans quarterbacks Davis Mills (10) and C.J. Stroud (7) throw passes during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans tight end Brevin Jordan (9) makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans tight end Brevin Jordan (9) makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans defensive tackle Kayden McDonald runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans defensive tackle Kayden McDonald runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans defensive end Danielle Hunter (55) hits a blocking dummy during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans defensive end Danielle Hunter (55) hits a blocking dummy during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans tight end Marlin Klein makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans tight end Marlin Klein makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans tight end Cade Stover makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans tight end Cade Stover makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans defensive end Sebastian Harsh (94) hits a blocking sled during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans defensive end Sebastian Harsh (94) hits a blocking sled during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans offensive tackle Derrick Graham (73) works with guard Keylan Rutledge during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans offensive tackle Derrick Graham (73) works with guard Keylan Rutledge during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans offensive tackle Derrick Graham (73) works with guard Keylan Rutledge during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans offensive tackle Derrick Graham (73) works with guard Keylan Rutledge during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans offensive linemen run blocking drills during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans offensive linemen run blocking drills during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans tight end Marlin Klein (83) makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans tight end Marlin Klein (83) makes a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio throws a football during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio throws a football during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans defensive backs Calen Bullock (2), Kamari Lassiter (3) and Derek Stingley Jr. (24) walk to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans defensive backs Calen Bullock (2), Kamari Lassiter (3) and Derek Stingley Jr. (24) walk to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell (1) makes his way to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell (1) makes his way to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans Jamal Hill (56), Reed Blankenship (6), Azeez al-Shaair (0) and Aiden Fisher walk to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans Jamal Hill (56), Reed Blankenship (6), Azeez al-Shaair (0) and Aiden Fisher walk to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans offensive tackle Braden Smith walks to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans offensive tackle Braden Smith walks to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Punters work on their kicks during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Punters work on their kicks during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans guard Keylan Rutledge walks to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans guard Keylan Rutledge walks to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson walks to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson walks to the field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson (19) lines up under a punt to make a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson (19) lines up under a punt to make a catch during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans defensive back Brandon Codrington(17) catches a punt during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans defensive back Brandon Codrington(17) catches a punt during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans guard Wyatt Teller (75) walks to the practice field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans guard Wyatt Teller (75) walks to the practice field during an NFL training camp practice at Houston Methodist Training Center in Houston, Thursday, July 30, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Brett Coomer\/Houston Chronicle<\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/texans\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Houston Texans<\/a> were among the healthiest teams in the NFL in 2025, which likely contributed to one of the best regular seasons in the franchise\u2019s 25-year history.<\/p>\n<p>But this year, their depth \u2014 particularly at linebacker \u2014 is being tested just two days into training camp.<\/p>\n<p>Veteran linebacker Jake Hansen left Thursday\u2019s practice on a cart after suffering what coach DeMeco Ryans later described as a foot injury.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt just happened, so we\u2019ll evaluate him and see how he progresses toward getting back healthy,\u201d Ryans said after practice.<\/p>\n<p class=\"MM_onlineOnly\" title=\"CCI Online Only\">TEN TO WATCH: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/texans\/article\/training-camp-players-to-watch-stroud-dell-22298476.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Texans with most to prove in training camp<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Hansen went down during team drills after attempting to make a play with the second-team defense. Ryans stopped practice while trainers checked on Hansen. After he was loaded onto the cart with a towel over his face, his teammates came over to pat him on the back.<\/p>\n<p>It is too early to determine the extent of Hansen\u2019s injury.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>But losing him for any extended period could present problems for a position group that was already beginning to show signs of thinning.<\/p>\n<p>Earlier this offseason, the team\u2019s No. 3 linebacker, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/texans\/article\/ej-speed-quad-injury-22275502.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">E.J. Speed, suffered a quadriceps injury<\/a> in in a weight-room incident that could sideline him for the entire season, though that has not been determined. Even so, the Texans are not banking on Speed returning this season.<\/p>\n<p>Hansen was expected to compete for the No. 3 linebacker spot behind Azeez Al-Shaair and Henry To\u2019oTo\u2019o, along with several other candidates, including Marte Mapu, Jamal Hill and rookies Wade Woodaz and Aiden Fisher.<\/p>\n<p>Hansen had the most experience in Ryans\u2019 system among those candidates, including two starts during the 2024 season.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>He has played in 56 games over four seasons with Houston and has been a fixture on special teams, recording 84 tackles, two sacks and three tackles for loss.<\/p>\n<p>While the nature and timing of his injury are unfortunate, it opens opportunities for some of the Texans\u2019 younger players who might otherwise have been at risk of being cut.<\/p>\n<p>Still, if Hansen is out for an extended period, the Texans could look to free agents for help.<\/p>\n<p>Jayden Higgins making plays early<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/texans\/article\/houston-jayden-higgins-pittsburgh-afc-playoffs-21286265.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Jayden Higgins<\/a>, the second-year receiver from Iowa State, is turning heads through the first two days of camp. On the first two plays of team drills, Higgins made two catches, including a first-down reception on an out route against two-time All-Pro cornerback <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/texans\/article\/derek-stingley-interceptions-houston-playoffs-20030795.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Derek Stingley Jr.<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Quarterback <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/texans\/article\/cj-stroud-new-contract-22365099.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">C.J. Stroud,<\/a> who threw both passes, patted Higgins on the helmet after the series.<\/p>\n<p>Higgins\u2019 development as an offensive threat will be one of the keys for the Texans as they try to improve on last season. The Texans often struggled to produce consistent explosive plays opposite Nico Collins, and it showed during last season\u2019s playoff loss to the Patriots.<\/p>\n<p>Ryans said the offense is trying to move Higgins around the formation, including into the slot at times.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFirst play of practice today, he runs a great route, C.J. gives him a great ball. It just shows his growth,\u201d Ryans said. \u201cShows a guy you can count on in those crunch situations, and we\u2019re going to need him.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe need a guy to step up opposite Nico and be that threat, and Jayden can be that guy for us.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Higgins showed flashes during his rookie season.<\/p>\n<p>During the second half of the season, he became one of Stroud\u2019s biggest red zone threats. The receiver, drafted No. 34 overall in 2025, tied for the team lead with six receiving touchdowns.<\/p>\n<p>Now, entering this season, he looks faster and more confident than he did last year.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI expect him to be a dominant force,\u201d Stroud said. \u201cA guy who can make plays on the first, second and third levels. I think he\u2019s gotten better. I think he\u2019s learning and listening more. I want him to take steps in areas where he can grow beyond the things he\u2019s already good at.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Reed Blankenship impressing fellow DBs<\/p>\n<p>Texans safety Jalen Pitre said he is happy to have new safety <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/texans\/article\/reed-blankenship-texans-free-agency-22063174.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Reed Blankenship<\/a> on the team and believes Blankenship will elevate the defensive backs room.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHe\u2019s obviously won a Super Bowl, so he knows what it takes to get there,\u201d Pitre said. \u201cThat\u2019s really going to help us.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Blankenship signed a three-year deal with the Texans in March after four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.<\/p>\n<p>An undrafted defensive back out of Middle Tennessee State in 2022, Blankenship earned a starting job with the Eagles in his second season. He remained a starter until leaving for the Texans this offseason.<\/p>\n<p>Blankenship had at least 78 tackles in each of the past three seasons. During Philadelphia\u2019s run to the Super Bowl in the 2024 season, Blankenship had 27 tackles in four playoff games.<\/p>\n<p>Pitre described him as a versatile, hard-hitting player who can play near the line of scrimmage or deep in the secondary.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHe can really do it all,\u201d Pitre said.<\/p>\n<p>Thursday&#8217;s highlights<\/p>\n<p>Stroud was 5 of 9 in team drills against the first-team defense, with several solid throws to Higgins and Justin Watson.<br \/>\nThe biggest play of Thursday\u2019s practice came on an interception by second-year defensive back Alijah Huzzie. He broke on a pass from quarterback Davis Mills and returned it for a pick-six, to the delight of the defense.<br \/>\nHenry To\u2019oTo\u2019o also has been making strides. Stroud threw a screen pass to Woody Marks during team drills, but To\u2019oTo\u2019o avoided blockers and brought down Marks for a short gain.<br \/>\nGuard Keylan Rutledge is living up to his reputation as a mauler. During Wednesday\u2019s practice, he delivered a pancake block on Azeez Al-Shaair and had to be pried off the veteran linebacker.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Houston Texans defensive tackle Tommy Togiai (72) runs a pass rush drill during an NFL training camp practice&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":392490,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[56,58,57],"class_list":["post-392489","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-houston","tag-houston","tag-houston-headlines","tag-houston-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/392489","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=392489"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/392489\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/392490"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=392489"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=392489"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=392489"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}