Surprisingly, Will Fuller did not suit-up for the Houston Texans in the 38-24 loss to the Denver Broncos. The speed merchant was inactive after practiced in limited fashion throughout the week with a hamstring.
Fuller previously returned to the lineup in a Week 12 win over the Indianapolis Colts. He initially suffered his hamstring injury in Week 7, a loss to the Colts.
The wide receiver played two games before watching from the sideline again on Sunday. Texans coach Bill O’Brien says they ruled him out, despite him practicing, because it was in the team’s best interest.
“I think it’s all about — just in my opinion, you’re always trying to make decisions in the best interest of the team and we felt like for our team, and for him, that was the decision that was going to be the best decision for the team for that day,” said O’Brien on Monday.
Fuller has 42 receptions for 598 yards and three touchdowns in nine games of 2019 play. The Texans are 6-2 in games that he starts and finishes. His speed and improved route-running add an extra dynamic to Houston’s offense that most defenses have trouble stopping.
The Texans could use his talents on Sunday when they face the 8-5 Tennessee Titans. Two teams tied for the division, Sunday’s tilt at Nissan Stadium will give one of the two teams sole possession of first place.
Will he be available?
“I don’t know. We’ll have to see,” said O’Brien.
In four career games against Tennessee, Fuller has tallied 22 receptions for 253 yards and four touchdowns. The last time he faced the Titans, he had eight catches for 113 yards and a touchdown in a Week 2 loss.
Houston is in must-win territory. Fuller makes them a substantially better offensive team. It seems as if the Texans are resting him to make sure he is 100% for a vitally important three-week stretch.