How will they fit in Houston?
Garret Williams is back on Houston Stressans with a loaded episode that brings in a true AFC South perspective, as ESPN’s Stephen Holder joins the show to break down some of the most important storylines surrounding the Houston Texans and their division rival, the Indianapolis Colts.
This episode really centers around context and insight you don’t usually get, starting with a deep dive into new Texans offensive lineman Braden Smith. Holder shares details on Smith’s journey, including his injury history and a powerful personal story that adds a whole new layer to what he brings to Houston. It’s not just about the player on the field either—this is about leadership, resilience and why Smith could end up being a meaningful addition to the Texans’ offensive line as they continue building around CJ Stroud.
From there, the conversation shifts to the defensive side of the ball with a look at EJ Speed and how he fits into DeMeco Ryans’ system. Holder offers insight from his time covering the Colts, giving a clearer picture of what Speed does well, where he can make an impact and how he could carve out a role in Houston’s defense. It turns into a broader discussion about how the Texans are shaping their roster and what that says about the direction of the team heading into the season.
One of the most interesting parts of the episode is hearing how the Texans are viewed from the outside. Holder gives his perspective on CJ Stroud’s rapid rise and what it’s like watching Houston’s turnaround from a division rival’s lens. That naturally leads into a bigger conversation about the Colts’ offseason, expectations on both sides and what this rivalry could look like moving forward in a very competitive AFC South.
If you’re looking for insight that goes beyond the usual Texans coverage and gives you a full-picture view of the division, this episode delivers a smart, conversational breakdown that’s worth your time.