The Houston Texans will be going up against the New Orleans Saints for their first pre-season game on Saturday, August 13th at home. The preseason may not count but it is still extremely valuable for multiple reasons.
One reason the preseason is valuable would be that it is good for players to knock off the rust before the regular season begins and get real in-game practice. The more repetitions you have, the more comfortable and prepared you will be for when it really counts.
Another reason is that many of these players are bottom of the roster guys that are competing for a spot on the final roster or the practice squad.