While one essential piece of the Houston Texans’ offense is out, another one could be coming back.
Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon was officially listed on the team’s final injury report as “questionable” for Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. After missing the previous five practices, it’s a positive sign that he could potentially play.
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Meanwhile, wide receiver Tank Dell (chest), safety Jimmie Ward (groin) and backup running back Dameon Pierce (hamstring) were all listed as “out.”
Receiver Nico Collins, who was limited Thursday with a hamstring injury, told reporters Friday he was “good to go.”
Mixon missed last week’s 34-7 loss to the Minnesota Vikings after suffering an ankle injury caused by a hip-drop tackle in Week 2 against the Chicago Bears. He was listed as doubtful entering the weekend but later moved over to “out” before the team departed.
Without Mixon, the Texans never found stability or consistency on the ground. Cam Akers started in Mixon’s place, and could start again Sunday if Mixon can’t go.
As a team, the Texans rushed for just 38 yards on 14 carries against the Vikings. Akers found his way into the end zone for the first time in nearly a year, but it came on a 6-yard pass from C.J. Stroud in the third quarter.
For Dell, who left in the fourth quarter after totaling a season-high five catches, his impact could be replaced by one of several targets. Xavier Hutchinson, Robert Woods and John Metchie III all have experience playing.
Sunday could be a breakout game for Metchie, who was inactive for the first three games.
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As for Jacksonville, tight end Evan Engram won’t play due to a hamstring strain. Linebacker Foyesade Oluokum also has been ruled out with a foot injury.
Receiver Gabe Davis (shoulder), linebacker Devin Lloyd (knee), cornerback Jarrian Jones (shoulder) and safety Darnell Savage Jr. (quad) are all listed as questionable.
Kickoff from NRG Stadium is scheduled for noon CT.