The Houston Texans may not have their complement of Johnsons in the backfield against the Baltimore Ravens.
According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Duke Johnson sprained his ankle against the Kansas City Chiefs in the 34-20 loss on Thursday night to kickoff the season. As a result, Johnson is considered “week-to-week,” according to Rapoport, but is still considered a likely candidate to play the following week at the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Johnson carried five times for 14 yards against the Chiefs. The former Cleveland Browns running back was targeted just once in the Texans’ passing game. The outing was pedestrian at best.
#Texans RB Duke Johnson, who sprained his ankle on Thursday night, is considered week-to-week and is a long-shot to play this week against the #Ravens, source said. However, playing in Week 3 is possible, an indication it’s not a serious injury.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 14, 2020
With Johnson likely not to play against the Ravens, the Texans will have to evaluate their option at running back. Buddy Howell is on the roster as their third back, and the club called up undrafted rookie Scottie Phillips from the practice squad. Fullback Cullen Gillaspia did not play against the Chiefs as he dealt with a hamstring injury.