The Houston Texans orchestrated a significant offseason, strategically bolstering their roster through free agency signings and trades. Their draft choices, while promising on paper, were overshadowed by the impactful moves they made, such as the acquisitions of Stefon Diggs and Joe Mixon.
As the Houston Texans commenced their Organized Team Activities (OTAs) last week, it was a prime opportunity to witness the integration of new players into the team. Notable moments included rookie tight end Cade Stover's impressive catch, adding to the anticipation of the upcoming season.
With Week 2 of OTAs starting this Wednesday, the Texans and we, as fans and media, have some more things to look forward to. But one of the biggest things to watch is something we can follow along with based on the clips we see.
Biggest storyline during Week 2 of Texans OTAs to watch
CB2 Battle
With Derek Stingley, a top-five cornerback in the league, currently holding down the position of CB1 on the team, the Texans have a spot open for the CB2 and CB3 positions. Three of the new guys in C.J. Henderson, Jeff Okudah, and rookie Kamarri Lassiter could fight for those spots. However, Lassiter could also play the nickel position, too. According to head coach DeMeco Ryans, though, the Texans are excited to have the two new free-agent signings.
Lassiter certainly has the potential to be a lockdown cornerback, but that is at his absolute highest peak. His ceiling, to me, is a guy who is just too physical for the receivers he is guarding. Because of his length and protection, he forces a lot of errant throws, locking down zones.
To me, his floor is easily a guy who can start at any moment and at least take on the second or third wide receiver every game. If I had to guess, I'd say Lassiter may be the best option as the CB2. We know that's the plan for the long term, but he may not be fit for that yet. The two new players brought in are fit for that now, which is a huge plus.
Either way, the Texans, on paper, have a great cornerback room thus far. Now, we will see if that translates to the field or not. But the thing to watch during OTAs is how the battle for the second CB spot trends. We won't know who wins that battle now or next week of OTAs. But it's important to watch out for super positive plays of certain players in positions like that.