What to Watch at Texans OTAs: CJ Stroud’s Bounce Back, Jaylin Noel’s Role + Nico Got Paid! Now What?

The Houston Texans are back on the field as OTAs officially begin, and there is A LOT to watch heading into the 2026 season. CJ Stroud is healthy, confident and expected to be fully in command of this offense after last year’s OTA limitations due to shoulder soreness. No more mental reps. No more restrictions. What should Texans fans expect from a healthy QB1? In today’s episode of Locked On Texans, we break down everything we’re watching over the next week of Texans football, including: CJ Stroud taking control of the offense Major Texans roster battles to monitor Which second-year players are ready to make a jump Early signs that Nick Caley’s offense can unlock this team How David Montgomery changes Houston’s offense Why Jaylin Noel could have a bigger role than expected with no Christian Kirk and Tank Dell still sidelined Can Nico Collins play like a true top-5 WR after becoming the 5th-highest paid receiver in the NFL? Reed Blankenship’s fit next to Calen Bullock Can J-Roc become the Texans’ CB3 answer? Why Houston’s defense could take another step toward NFL dominance The Texans have Super Bowl expectations in 2026. OTAs may be voluntary, but the clues start now. Subscribe for daily Houston Texans coverage, film breakdowns, analysis, news, and insider conversations.