What's the plan for the Houston Texans surrounding their starters for Thursday night's preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers?
Expect to see some young talent that could be impactful in the regular season, but most major names will be sidelined.
According to KRPC 2 Sports' Aaron Wilson, the Texans will follow a similar approach to their Game 1 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings last preseason. That means names like quarterback C.J. Stroud, running back David Montgomery, wide receiver Nico Collins and veteran offensive linemen like Wyatt Teller won't play against the Bolts at Reliant Stadium.
Texans coach DeMeco Ryans did say there was a select number of starters who were expected to be held out, but he didn't mention which players. Two names who could be with the first-team offense and out for the opening drive are first-round pick Keylan Rutledge at center and wide receiver Jayden Higgins. Both should be out for there for at least one series, with the former potentially out there for the entire first quarter.
According to Wilson, Texans are expected to start backup Davis Mills at quarterback and rookie running back Noah Whittington in the backfield. On defense names like Will Anderson Jr., Danielle Hunter, Derek Stingley Jr., Kamari Lassiter, Calen Bullock and Azeez Al-Shaair, among others, will not play.
Those who will see action on defense include second-round pick Kayden McDonald at defensive tackle and fourth-round pick Wade Woodaz at linebacker. McDonald has the kind of strength and technique the Texans expect to be a role player the second he makes contact with an offensive lineman. Last season at Ohio State, he was voted the Big Ten Conference Defensive Lineman of the Year and was named an All-American.
A former starter for the Tigers, Woodaz fits the prototype at weakside linebacker and is trying to lock up the No. 3 linebacker spot. He's been impressive at times in camp, often playing pass the whistle and getting in fights with offensive linemen between snaps.
Other names to watch for on Thursday night include tight end Marlin Klein, offensive lineman Sam Hagen, center Jake Andrews, wide receiver Lewis Bond, defensive back Kamari Rasmey, cornerback Collin Wright and linebacker Marter Mapu.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans not expected to play many starters vs. Chargers, per NFL Insider