Texans news: The Houston player who especially impressed Dan Orlovsky appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
It seems like the Houston Texans are struggling to deal with the loss of receiver Jayden Higgins . And perhaps they took it out on Fernando Mendoza . But here is the player who especially impressed Dan Orlovsky in Thursday's preseason game against the Raiders .
And it wasn't even a projected starter who Orlovsky mentioned, according to a post on X by the Pat McAfee Show.
"The big takeaway I had from Houston's offense: One, Cade Stover … was really impressive," Orlovsky said. "The different things that they asked him to do. The first play of the game, he comes back across the line of scrimmage to block. The multiple tight ends that they used. A little bit different identity of offense.
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"The way they're using him. Just pay attention to that."
Texans TE Cade Stover still in the 53-man mix
Good efforts in training camp have helped Stover. He's a third-year NFL player, picked in the fourth round of the 2024 draft by the Texans. Over his first two seasons, he drew 16 starting assignments. Stover totaled 27 catches and 209 yards receiving with a touchdown.
Stover remains behind Dalton Schultz and Foster Moreau on the depth chart , according to ESPN. Versatility helps Stover's cause, as he could also be deployed as a fullback.
Overall, the Texans had some notable advancements toward the opening-day roster in the game against the Raiders, according to texanswire.com. Included in the mix was running back Woody Marks .
"I thought he looked great," quarterback C.J. Stroud said postgame. "He's been amazing in practice and taking strides. I'm just proud of him not even only in the running game, but in pass protection, as well. I thought he did a great job."
Also, linebacker Wade Woodaz helped his cause. He authored a pick-six of Mendoza.
"That pick came from him just being where he's supposed to be, finding a way to catch the football and go score," Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. "He just has to continue to improve. Rookie that we're trying to get a ton of reps. He's done a good job of what we've given him."
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