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Texans vs. Saints Preview: Five Players to Watch

By Josh McSwain

Aug 14, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Houston Texans running back Kenny Hilliard (22) is tackled by San Francisco 49ers strong safety Jaquiski Tartt (29) in the second quarter at Levi
Aug 14, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Houston Texans running back Kenny Hilliard (22) is tackled by San Francisco 49ers strong safety Jaquiski Tartt (29) in the second quarter at Levi /
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Christian Covington

Nov 22, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive tackle Christian Covington (95) on the sideline during the game against the New York Jets at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive tackle Christian Covington (95) on the sideline during the game against the New York Jets at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

The battle for the other starting defensive end spot is still going on, and he got 24 snaps in the opener, second among defensive linemen. Dan Pettinato was the only one who got more snaps with 31. I think they are trying to gear him up for the season in which he might have to play a lot of snaps–both at end and some on the inside as a three technique in nickel and dime situations.

Will he win the starting job alongside Watt? That remains to be seen. Currently Devon Still is listed as the starting end alongside Watt, but things could change very quickly when Watt returns. Though Covington is listed second on the depth chart, he will get a starter’s workload as Watt is out.

Brandon Dunn is listed behind Still right now at the other defensive end position, but he is still in the mix to take a starting spot. But Dunn only got 14 snaps against the 49ers and Still got 21. Perhaps that’s a sign those two still have something to prove to the coaches. Regardless, much will be asked and expected of Covington this season.

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