Houston Texans coach David Culley kicked off his press conference with news fans didn’t want to hear to start the first day of Week 6 in the NFL.
After congratulating the Houston Astros on advancing to the ALCS by knocking off the Chicago White Sox, Culley provided an injury update for left tackle Laremy Tunsil.
“Laremy Tunsil will be having surgery tomorrow on his thumb,” Culley said.
Tunsil had injured his hand during the 25-22 loss to the New England Patriots at NRG Stadium. Backup Geron Christian stepped in for 33 plays, although Tunsil did return for Houston but went immediately into the blue medical tent on the sideline as the game concluded.
Culley provided a time table for when Tunsil could return.
“We’re thinking maybe right now it could be four weeks, not really sure, but that’s what we’re thinking it could be,” said Culley.
Christian is expected to go in the two-time Pro Bowler’s absence. The former Washington 2018 third-round pick from Louisville started eight of his 24 games with the NFC East club from 2018-20.
“Geron is going to go right at that position,” said Culley. “We feel good about that. He knows the backup. He’s backed up both sides. He’ll be on the left side and Charlie [Heck] will be on the right side. In this league, the next man up has to go, and he’s the next guy up.”
The Texans placed starting right tackle Marcus Cannon on injured reserve on Oct. 9 as the former Patriot has been dealing with a back injury.