Key defensive starters and a top running back were sidelined, casting doubt on their availability for Week 15. Optimism remains for offensive weapons.
The Houston Texans (8-5) opened the practice week for their crucial Week 15 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals (3-10) with a lengthy injury report. Key defensive players and a top running back were among the eleven players listed, though there is optimism about the return of two offensive weapons.
The team's official Wednesday practice report indicates several starters did not participate, putting their availability for Sunday in question, while others were limited as they look to return to full strength.
Did Not Participate (DNP) - Wednesday
A number of significant players, including four potential defensive starters, were held out of Wednesday’s practice session. This list is headlined by key pieces on the defensive side of the ball:
Azeez Al-Shaair: LB | Ankle, Key defensive leader and tackler.
Denico Autry: DE | Knee, Veteran pass rusher remains sidelined.
Sheldon Rankins: DT | Elbow/Shoulder, Important interior defensive line presence.
Kamari Lassiter: CB | Foot, though he played through a similar injury last week.
Nick Chubb: RB | Ribs, Suffered the injury in Week 14. His status for Sunday is uncertain.
Trent Brown: OT | Hand, a significant loss if he cannot go.
Woody Marks: RB | Knee, Another running back dealing with a knee issue.
Of note, cornerback Kamari Lassiter battled through a similar foot injury last week to deliver a standout performance against the Chiefs. While listed as DNP, there is a chance he follows a similar path and practices in a limited capacity later in the week. The status of running back Nick Chubb appears to be the most uncertain of the group, a factor that could limit the Texans' running game against Arizona.
Limited Participation (LP) - Wednesday
Four players were listed as limited participants, a positive sign that they are on the road back to game action.
Harrison Bryant: TE | Neck/Shoulder, Recently designated to return from Injured Reserve.
Justin Watson: WR | Calf, Recently designated to return from Injured Reserve.
Jamal Hill: LB | Hamstring, A rotational linebacker.
E.J. Speed: LB | Knee, Another key depth piece at linebacker.
The most encouraging development is the presence of Harrison Bryant and Justin Watson on the practice field. The team has activated the 21-day practice window for both players, meaning they are eligible to return from Injured Reserve soon, potentially as early as Sunday. Their return would provide a significant boost to the Texans' receiving corps and tight end depth.
Looking Ahead
The Texans, who stand at 8-5 and are battling for playoff positioning, will need to closely monitor the practice status of their defensive core—Al-Shaair, Autry, Rankins, and Lassiter—over the next two days. Their ability to practice, even in a limited capacity on Thursday or Friday, will be a strong indicator of their chances to play on Sunday.
The potential loss of Nick Chubb is a concern, but the offense could receive a timely shot in the arm with the possible return of Watson and Bryant to the active roster, offering more targets for the passing game in Week 15.