The injury concerns for the Houston Texans continue to escalate ahead of their Week 5 clash with the Buffalo Bills, creating significant hurdles for the team. After a hard-fought 24-21 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars last weekend, where rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud led a game-winning drive, the Texans improved to 3-1. While the win was crucial, it came closer than many anticipated, exposing potential vulnerabilities. To solidify their standing as legitimate contenders in the AFC, the Texans will need a strong performance against the Bills. However, a growing injury list could severely hamper their ability to execute effectively in this pivotal game.
Following Thursday’s practice, the Texans’ injury report grew, listing several key players as either limited participants or completely sidelined. Those who did not participate (DNP) in practice include running backs Joe Mixon (ankle) and Dameon Pierce (hamstring), wide receiver Robert Woods (foot), offensive tackle Blake Fisher (illness), and defensive ends Derek Barnett and Jerry Hughes, along with linebacker Jake Hansen. The absence of these players represents a significant blow to both the Texans’ offense and defense, with key positions impacted on both sides of the ball.
Adding to the list of concerns are players who were limited participants (LP) in practice, including offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil (ankle), wide receiver Tank Dell (chest), offensive lineman Juice Scruggs (hip), safety Jimmie Ward (groin), and defensive end Dylan Horton (illness). While limited participation offers some hope that these players may be available for the game, it still casts uncertainty on the team’s ability to be at full strength.
The timing of these injuries couldn’t be worse as the Texans prepare to face a Bills team eager to bounce back after a blowout loss on Monday Night Football. Buffalo is coming off an embarrassing performance on the national stage and will be looking to prove themselves as legitimate contenders by getting back on track in this matchup. While they may have the disadvantage of a short week of preparation, the Texans are equally vulnerable given their growing injury list.
The Texans’ victory over the Jaguars, while important, raised questions about the team’s ability to close out games convincingly. The win was narrower than it should have been, suggesting that the team still needs to improve in several areas. Houston’s success this season has been largely dependent on the impressive play of rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, but to compete at the highest level, they will need contributions from every part of the roster. Unfortunately, with several key players either out or limited due to injury, the Texans’ depth will be tested.
The injuries to Joe Mixon and Dameon Pierce are particularly concerning for the Texans’ backfield. Without their top two running backs, Houston will likely rely on Cam Akers to shoulder the workload in the ground game. While Akers is capable, the absence of both Mixon and Pierce will make it difficult for the Texans to establish a consistent running attack, putting more pressure on Stroud to carry the offense.
With seven players missing from practice entirely and several others limited, the Texans face a steep challenge heading into this game. Prioritizing health, especially in the early part of the season, is crucial for Houston if they hope to maintain their momentum and continue competing at a high level. The Bills will be a tough opponent, and the Texans will need to dig deep to come out on top, but a lengthy injury list could make that task even more difficult.
