The Houston Texans traveled to Charlotte, North Carolina, for a joint practice with the Panthers on Wednesday.
This would be the final of its kind before the preseason wraps up this Friday night, with both teams facing off against one another for the contest. Not surprisingly, the Texans defense had its way with the Panthers. The offensive production, however, should give fans plenty of reason for optimism.
As we approach the beginning of the 2026 season, the offense is essentially the only question mark surrounding Houston. The defense could be historically good, and with youth at every level, it should be a top unit in the league for years to come. Based on how the offense performed on Wednesday, the rest of the league might be in trouble.
Offense shines as Texans dominate Panthers in joint practice
The Texans recently traded for New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte. With Houston playing the Panthers in its final preseason game Friday, Boutte made the trip to Charlotte. Being so new to the offense, Boutte didn't make any noise in practice, but the rest of the unit put the league on notice.
Per Jonathan Alexander, new Texans running back David Montgomery ran the ball well, and he seemingly took most of the first-team reps in the 11-on-11 period. Given his absence from the first two preseason games, it's nice for him to get on the field and produce.
Wide receiver Jaylin Noel returned to practice this week, and if that wasn't enough of a positive sign, he caught a touchdown in the joint practice. Quarterback CJ Stroud also found wide receiver Lewis Bond for a touchdown, as Bond fights to make the roster. Stroud's connection with Nico Collins seems to be intact as well.
The Texans offense was firing on all cylinders Wednesday. One Texans analyst said it might have been the best offensive showcase he's ever seen from the Texans in training camp.
The defense was expected to dominate the Panthers, and they did. Safety Calen Bullock came up with an interception with a great break on a ball thrown over the middle of the field. Additionally, Alexander reported defensive end Danielle Hunter had three sacks. With Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. on opposite ends, no quarterback will look forward to playing the Texans this season.
With just one more preseason game left, Houston will reportedly sit every starter as they prepare for the regular season.
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