The Houston Texans are preparing for their Week 1 matchup against the Buffalo Bills by releasing their first unofficial depth chart of the regular season.
This depth chart outlines the team's lineup across all three phases, though it is subject to change as the season progresses. Notably, Kayshon Boutte, the newly acquired wide receiver, is listed as a starter alongside Nico Collins and Xavier Hutchinson, pushing Jaylin Noel down the depth chart. Despite this shift, Noel is expected to play a significant role in the offense this year.
In the tight end position, rookie Marlin Klein has moved up to the third spot, following a strong performance in training camp and preseason. He now ranks behind Dalton Schultz and Foster Moreau. Klein's rise is partly due to veteran Brevin Jordan's knee injury, which has affected his position on the depth chart.
Conversely, Kayden McDonald, another second-round draft pick, is currently listed as the fifth defensive tackle, behind Sheldon Rankins, Tommy Togiai, Logan Hall, and Mario Edwards Jr. His lower ranking may indicate challenges in adjusting to the Texans' defensive scheme. However, at just 21 years old, McDonald still has time to develop into a key player for the team.
