Updated
Updated · HoustonTexans.com · Aug 18
David Montgomery Powers Texans in 1st Joint Practice as C.J. Stroud-Led Offense Rolls
Updated
Updated · HoustonTexans.com · Aug 18

David Montgomery Powers Texans in 1st Joint Practice as C.J. Stroud-Led Offense Rolls

3 articles · Updated · HoustonTexans.com · Aug 18

Summary

  • Houston’s first joint practice of 2026 tilted toward the Texans offense, with David Montgomery repeatedly breaking through the Raiders front and setting the tone for the session.
  • C.J. Stroud opened with 3 straight completions and consistently worked from clean pockets, while Houston’s line largely contained Maxx Crosby and created big lanes for Montgomery, Woody Marks and Noah Whittington.
  • Red-zone work reinforced that edge: Stroud turned a low snap into a touchdown to Marks, and Davis Mills hit Lewis Bond twice for scores after also connecting deep with rookie Treyvhon Saunders.
  • The only notable late blemishes were 2 interceptions in two-minute situations, though Houston still closed with defensive picks by Jalen Pitre and Kamari Lassiter.
  • The showing matched the Raiders’ own assessment that their defense struggled against Houston’s run game and red-zone execution ahead of the teams’ preseason meeting.

Insights

Will the Raiders' glaring red-zone run defense flaws ultimately overshadow their fierce pass rush before the regular season begins?
Can rookie Mike Washington Jr. steal the spotlight and secure a major role in Klint Kubiak’s demanding new offense?
With Darien Porter dominating first-team reps, is the Raiders' fierce cornerback battle finally over, or just heating up?