Houston Texans: Rookie Report Week 7 vs. Las Vegas Raiders

The Houston Texans faced the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 7 of the 2022 NFL season and the rookies had their good and bad moments. Here is a look at every rookie who played for the Texans this past Sunday.

Dameon Pierce, RB

The case surrounding Dameon Pierce for Offensive Rookie of the Year is increasing weekly. Pierce dominated the Raiders’ defense all night, running for 92 yards on 20 rushes, averaging over four yards a carry.

Pierce’s usage continues to rise, and he continues to impress. If the Texans’ offense can stay on the field longer, how they use Pierce will allow Davis Mills to develop. Hopefully, next week against the division-rival Tennessee Titans, the Texans will be able to keep their offense on the field and show the Titans who’s next as the king of the running game in the AFC South.

Derek Stingley Jr, DB

The Las Vegas Raiders came into Sunday’s game with a clear game plan to run the ball. Fans were excited to see the matchup between Derek Stingley and Davante Adams. Stingley allowed Adams to catch all three targets, but Adams only had 38 receiving yards.

Stingley stood out when his tackling was 100-percent, making all five of his tackling attempts. Fans may not have received the matchup they had hoped for, but the fact that Adams was not targeted against Stingley more than three times is impressive and an excellent sign for the future. We will see how Stingley plays next week versus the Titans, who are on a four-game winning streak and struggle in the passing game.

Jalen Pitre, S

The Houston Texans’ run defense is atrocious, and Jalen Pitre continues to struggle with the rest of the rush defense. Pitre had an average performance on Sunday. His run defense wasn’t as bad as other defenders, but everyone must step up against the run, and Pitre is a part of that. Pitre has impressed in the past, so fans shouldn’t worry, but hopefully, fans can see a more impressive game against the Titans.

Kenyon Green, OG

The offensive line has had its ups and downs; unfortunately, Kenyon Green continues to disappoint. The first-round pick had high expectations coming into the season, when you are drafted early, you have to show your talent at some point, but it hasn’t happened for Green.

He continues to struggle each week, and sadly, this week was his worst outing all season against the run, but he did have a solid game protecting the pass. It is difficult to say if Green will bust because of his early draft selection, but coming off an injury and struggling for the first season can be typical for an offensive lineman.

Christian Harris, LB

Houston Texans fans finally got to see rookie linebacker Christian Harris, who just came off an injury and debuted on Sunday against the Raiders. Harris did not have a great debut for the Texans. He missed his fair share of tackles, but it’s not all bad. Harris showed elite athleticism, and his speed is unbelievable.

He will positively impact this run defense, but he will require time to adjust to the speed of the NFL. Once Harris has another game under his belt, fans can judge him fairly but for now, allow Harris to play another game and hopefully show out against Derrick Henry.