Texans Injury Woes Deepen Ahead of Patriots Clash

Key Players Sidelined, Others Limited As Houston Prepares for Short Week Matchup

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:58am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a football game, with players and field elements broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes, conveying the fragmented nature of the Texans' injury-plagued roster.Injuries and adversity test the Texans' depth and resilience as they prepare to face the Patriots in a crucial matchup.Houston Today

The Houston Texans are facing a slew of injuries ahead of their matchup against the New England Patriots, with star wide receiver Nico Collins and cornerback Justin Watson both sidelined due to concussions. Several other key contributors, including linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, cornerback Kamari Lassiter, and running back Jawhar Jordan, are also limited in practice with various ailments. The cumulative impact of these injuries could significantly test the Texans' depth and resilience against a disciplined Patriots team.

Why it matters

The Texans' injury woes come at a critical juncture, as they prepare to face a tough Patriots squad on a short week. With their receiving corps already thin, the loss of Collins and Watson is a significant blow. The team's ability to adapt and overcome these setbacks could define the outcome of the game and potentially impact their season trajectory.

The details

Wide receiver Nico Collins suffered a severe concussion during Monday night's win over the Steelers, requiring a cart to transport him from the sideline. Fellow receiver Justin Watson is also in the concussion protocol. Defensive end Denico Autry (knee) and offensive tackle Trent Brown (ankle) did not practice on Wednesday, while several other key players, including Al-Shaair, Lassiter, Rankins, Howard, Ingram, and Jordan, were limited.

  • Nico Collins was injured during Monday night's game against the Steelers.
  • Justin Watson also entered the concussion protocol this week.
  • Several players, including Autry, Brown, Al-Shaair, Lassiter, and others, were limited or did not practice on Wednesday.

The players

Nico Collins

A star wide receiver for the Houston Texans who suffered a severe concussion in the team's previous game, putting his availability for the upcoming Patriots matchup in doubt.

Justin Watson

A Texans wide receiver who is also in the concussion protocol, further depleting the team's receiving corps.

Azeez Al-Shaair

A Texans linebacker who was limited in practice due to a knee injury.

Kamari Lassiter

A Texans cornerback who was limited in practice with ankle and knee issues.

Jawhar Jordan

A Texans running back who was limited in practice due to an ankle injury and was inactive in the previous game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must find a way to overcome these injuries and put our best foot forward against the Patriots. It's going to take a team effort, but I believe in the resilience of this group.”

— Lovie Smith, Head Coach, Houston Texans

What’s next

The Texans will continue to monitor the progress of their injured players throughout the week, with the hope of getting some key contributors back on the field for the Patriots game. The team's coaching staff will also need to carefully evaluate their game plan and make necessary adjustments to account for the depleted roster.

The takeaway

The Texans' injury woes highlight the challenges teams face in the NFL, where depth and adaptability are crucial. While the team's playoff aspirations may be tested, this could also be an opportunity for lesser-known players to step up and make a name for themselves. The Texans' ability to overcome these setbacks and remain competitive will be a true test of their resilience and coaching acumen.