The Houston Texans kick off their season against the Indianapolis Colts with several notable absences on both sides. Defensive back M.J. Stewart is sidelined for Houston, alongside John Metchie III and others. Meanwhile, the Colts will have to navigate the game without wide receiver Josh Downs and kicker Matt Gay due to injuries.

This presents opportunities for rookies like Adonai Mitchell and Spencer Shrader to make impacts in their respective roles.