I realize that some positions could be determined by training camp battles and/or a late free agent signing, but the conclusion of the draft should provide the fans with some idea of who the Texans will trot out on Reliant's hallowed ground come September 9, 2007. Here's my best guess at the starters for the opener against the Chiefs; it's a bit different from what the Houston depth chart currently reads:
WR--Andre Johnson
LT--Ephraim Salaam
LG--Chester Pitts
C--Steve McKinney
RG--Fred Weary
RT--Eric Winston
TE--Owen Daniels
WR--Kevin Walter
QB--Matt Schaub
RB--Ahman Green
FB--Vonta Leach
DE--Anthony Weaver
DT--Amobi Okoye
NT--Anthony Maddox
DE--Mario Williams
LB--Danny Clark
LB--DeMeco Ryans
LB--Morlon Greenwood
CB--Dunta Robinson
CB--Petey Faggins
SS--Glenn Earl
FS--C.C. Brown
P--Someone not named Chad Stanley
K--Kris Brown
KR--Jacoby Jones
PR--Dexter Wynn
LS--Bryan Pittman
I'm really hoping that Charles Spencer is ready to go come the opener, but let's be realistic; that's why I've given the nod to Salaam. I also think McKinney will beat out a returning Mike Flanagan for the starting center gig, primarily on the strength of his play late last season. That said, I look for Kasey Studdard to take either the starting C or RG job by the end of the season. As much as I like Shantee Orr, I have to believe that Danny Clark is capable of beating him out (though Orr still figures to be a big part of the rotation). I'm reaching a bit on Jacoby Jones beating out Jerome Mathis for the return job, but I honestly think that Mathis' days in H-Town are numbered with the arrival of Jones and Apostrophe Davis.
In looking at that starting line-up, I see a marked improvement over September of 2006. While glaring issues at punter and safety remain, let's remember that Rome wasn't built in a day. I could make a Chad Stanley/Julius Caesar crack here...I'll refrain.