Houston Texans training camp: Players to watch

The Houston Texans’ training camp officially kicks off on July 28th, and there are several players worth keeping an eye on as the offseason comes to a close.

PLAYER ONE: WR JAYLIN NOEL

Although Jaylin Noel didn’t put up eye-popping numbers in 2025, he consistently made plays whenever his number was called on offense and special teams.

Noel is the fastest player on the Texans’ offense, and he needs to be more involved in 2026. He was very good as Houston’s kick returner, but he’s capable of doing much more, which is exactly why the Texans invested a third-round pick in him.

If Noel continues to develop, he has the potential to make a major impact this season.

PLAYER TWO: TE MARLIN KLEIN

Marlin Klein was selected by Houston in the second round of this year’s draft, and he could quietly become one of the Texans’ biggest weapons heading into the season.

Klein dealt with a minor injury earlier this offseason, but he’s expected to be ready for training camp with plenty to prove. He gives C.J. Stroud another big-bodied target and will have the opportunity to learn behind veteran Dalton Schultz.

The Texans needed more depth at tight end, and Klein can be brought along at the right pace before eventually competing for the starting job in the future.

PLAYER THREE: CB JAYLIN SMITH

Jaylin Smith showed plenty of promise early in his rookie season before suffering a season-ending injury in Week 9.

Now fully healthy, he’s looking to reclaim his role in the secondary. Smith earned rave reviews from teammates and coaches last offseason and continued to improve as he became more comfortable in DeMeco Ryans’ defense.

He’s a player who could contribute immediately.

PLAYER FOUR: LB WADE WOODAZ

Wade Woodaz has a legitimate opportunity to carve out a significant role in 2026.

Azeez Al-Shaair and Henry To’oTo’o will handle the majority of the snaps, but E.J. Speed’s injury opens the door for the rookie. If Woodaz can separate himself during training camp, there’s a real path for him to earn meaningful playing time.

CONCLUSION

The Texans have most of their starting positions locked in, but there are still opportunities for several young players to separate themselves. Training camp will go a long way in determining who earns a bigger role heading into the 2026 season.