The Houston Texans' offensive starters only played one drive in their 22-20 preseason loss against the Las Vegas Raiders, but they made the most of it.
Quarterback C.J. Stroud completed four of six passes for 27 yards and did not make any critical mistakes. The run game dominated the drive, with running back Woody Marks recording 37 rushing yards, including a 20-yard touchdown run to make it 7-0.
For Stroud, who struggled in both of Houston’s playoff games last season, it was good to get back on the field as he has found an offensive identity with a balanced attack.
“Yeah, it felt good. It’s always a blessing to get to play in the NFL,” Stroud said in an interview with ESPN's Lisa Salters. “I thought we handled it very well. I thought we handled the pressure, ran the ball good and then converted on third down like we talked about.”
Feels good to be back. pic.twitter.com/4inlj2H6q4
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 21, 2026
The Texans lacked a reliable run game last season. Marks served as a primary running back, but he is more of a change-of-pace player rather than a starter. Now, Marks can serve in that role because the Texans signed running back David Montgomery to the offense, who has proven he is a starting back in this league. Montgomery did not play in Houston’s preseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers or their game against the Raiders.
Stroud and the rest of Houston’s offense will get their first regular-season action on Sun. Sept. 13 on CBS when they take on the Buffalo Bills.
Stroud has only faced the Bills once in his career, back in 2024 when he helped lead Houston to a 23-20 win.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans QB C.J. Stroud on return to the field vs Raiders: 'It felt good!'