Houston Texans is 0-4 after four games, with the latest setback coming in a heartbreaking 34-30 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Houston has now lost three games by one score, making the winless start even more frustrating. Mounting injuries have made the situation even more difficult.
Houston has dealt with losses across the linebacker room, defensive line and offensive line, while wide receiver Tank Dell is just beginning his return from injured reserve. Al-Shaair was listed as a limited participant Wednesday with a groin injury. That is a significant improvement from last week’s preparation, since he was eventually ruled out for Week 4.
The linebacker was also seen jogging on the practice field Wednesday, another encouraging sign as Houston prepares for Sunday’s game. Al-Shaair suffered the groin injury during the Week 3 loss to Indianapolis. He still managed to finish that game with 11 tackles despite playing only 76% of Houston’s defensive snaps.
Al-Shaair has been one of Houston’s most productive defenders when healthy. He recorded 8 tackles against Buffalo, 12 against Cincinnati and 11 against Indianapolis, giving him 31 tackles through his first three games.
During Al-Shaair’s absence against Dallas, Kenneth Murray stepped into the starting role. Murray was elevated from the practice squad and made his first appearance for Houston in that game.
Several Texans Players Limited on Wednesday
The Texans had Will Anderson Jr. (ankle), Trent Brown (rest) and Jamal Hill (knee) listed as did not participate. Anderson’s absence is particularly notable because he remains one of the most important pieces of Houston’s defensive front.
Along with Al-Shaair, pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney, Nico Collins, Tank Dell, Logan Hall, Kayden McDonald, Braden Smith and Nate Thomas were limited Wednesday. Collins was listed as a rest designation rather than an injury, while the others were dealing with knee, foot, ankle or illness-related issues.
For now, Wednesday’s report does not give these players an official game status. Their participation over the next two practices will be more telling when Houston releases its final injury report.
Safety M.J. Stewart and Wade Woodaz were full participants Wednesday despite their listed injuries. That is encouraging for a Texans defense already dealing with several absences.
