Tag: Preseason 2024

Watch: Texans FB Troy Hairston scores first NFL TD in preseason game vs. Rams

Three years after signing as an undrafted free agent, Troy Hairston found his way into the end zone for his first career touchdown.

Last week, Houston Texans third-year receiver John Metchie III finally scored his first official touchdown in the NFL.

A week later, it was time for Troy Hairston to punch it in for six.

Hairston caught a swing pass from Tim Boyle on the opening play of the second quarter in Saturday’s preseason contest against the Los Angeles Rams for a 5-yard touchdown to give Houston a 10-7 lead.

Hairston, who missed all of last season after suffering a neck injury in practice, is competing for a spot on the active roster. Fullback Andrew Beck might be a lock to make the roster, but Hariston’s value on special teams could push him ahead of newcomer Nick Bawden.

As a rookie still learning how to play the role, Hairston flashed potential in Pep Hamilton’s zone-based scheme. Mostly used on third-down routes, the former Central Michigan linebacker finished with five catches for 19 yards.

The Texans likely will only carry five running backs — including a fullback— on the active roster. Even if Hariston doesn’t make it on the active roster, he’ll be a top candidate to stick around on the practice squad.

Texans kicker Kaʻimi Fairbairn shows off leg power with 51-yard field goal

Kaʻimi Fairbairn shows off his leg power with a 51-yard field goal for the Houston Texans to extend their lead.

Kaʻimi Fairbairn is already showing Houston Texans fans why he was worth a new contract.

Fairbairn, the Texans’ longtime kicker, continued his long streak with a booming 51-yard field goal Friday night at Acrisure Stadium to give Houston a 20-6 lead over the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Last season, Fairbairn was 5-of-6 on field goal attempts of 50 yards or more en route to helping Houston secure its first division title in four years. He finished 27-of-28 with a long of 54 yards while totaling 102 points.

This offseason, Fairbairn agreed to a new three-year, $15.9 million extension to stick around with the Texans through 2026. He should remain a stable part of the franchise’s turnaround alongside playmakers C.J. Stroud, Danielle Hunter, Will Anderson Jr. and Stefon Diggs in 2024.