Undrafted rookie Collin Wright is turning heads at camp. After consistently disrupting passes in drills, the Stanford product now fights to secure a wide-open depth chart spot.
The Houston Texans are in the thick of the preseason stretch of the offseason. There are plenty of names to know as the team solidifies its opening day roster.
The preseason has long been known as a proving ground for non-starting players to make the roster. Over time it has increasingly become that as starters have gradually been phased out of the preseason.
With that, new names have a chance to emerge as contributors, where special teams and other unique roles become paramount. The Texans will be looking for players who can fit different roles with versatility.
Jonathan M. Alexander of the Houston Chronicle identified a Texans defensive player that could be worth watching in the preseason opener. He tabbed Stanford rookie Collin Wright as a name to know at cornerback. Here's some of what Alexander had to say on the potential breakout player.
"Wright, an undrafted rookie who played at Stanford, has been among the biggest surprises in camp through two weeks. He's made plays in nearly every practice, with either a deflection or an interception in team drills. Now, he'll get a chance to showcase that in what should be his first preseason game.
The Texans are likely to keep four cornerbacks on their roster this season, as they've done in previous years under Ryans. Right now, there are only two locks - Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter.
So two spots are up for grabs among Wright, Jaylin Smith, Tremon Smith, Alijah Huzzie, Brandon Codrington and Stephen Hall. And based on how each of the cornerbacks have, Wright has a legitimate shot.
Playing special teams will be key, though, as Ryans said that is one of the things that will help determine which players make the roster."
Feb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Stanford defensive back Collin Wright (DB32) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesUndrafted rookies tend to play with a chip on their shoulder. Presumably, Wright will play with a similar mentality. That's not to say he will play recklessly, but that he will be motivated to prove himself in 2026.
Wright has displayed a high degree of athleticism. Coming out of Stanford, he still flies under the radar.
After a good showing at the NFL combine, it appears he is emerging as a guy who can't be counted out of the Texans' 53-man roster plans. He has a chance to climb the depth chart over the next couple of weeks.
Nobody knows what the ultimate 53-man roster will be other than those within the organization. We'll get a better picture as Wright and others vie for the last spots on the roster.
