Rob Housler started Saturday's preseason opener against the Texans, ESPN's Josh Weinfuss reports.

Housler started Saturday's preseason opener against the Texans, ESPN's Josh Weinfuss reports.

Analysis:

Following a disappointing, injury-plagued 2013 season, Housler is thought to be competing for playing time with free-agent acquisition John Carlson and second-round draft pick Troy Niklas. Housler is talented enough to emerge from the pack, and he turned his only target in Saturday's game into a 38-yard gain. However, Carlson is listed first on the depth chart, and he may cut into Housler's value, even if Housler wins out.