The Houston Texans are down five defensive starters for Sunday’s contest at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers.
Linebackers Azeez Al-Shaair and Henry To’oTo’o, plus cornerback Kamari Lassiter and safety Jimmie Ward were all officially out for Sunday’s matchup against the Packers, according to the team’s Friday injury report. The four appeared on the inactive list, along with return man Steven Sims and veteran receiver Robert Woods.
Al-Shaair suffered a knee injury in the first half of Week 6’s win over the New England Patriots. Neville Hewitt, best known for his special teams ability, will start as the team’s MIKE backer opposite either Jake Hansen or fifth-round pick Jamal Hill.
To’oTo’o exited the game late in the fourth quarter after making a tackle on a punt return. He entered the league’s concussion protocol and didn’t practice throughout the week. Hansen filled in for the final eight minutes of Sunday’s matchup.
Our inactives for #HOUvsGB ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/UtZnTPgagZ
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) October 20, 2024
“Neville and Jake have been here with us for a while,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. “They have gotten a lot of reps. They know how we play, they know what to expect, they know how to communicate. It is nothing new to them. If they have to go out and give snaps, I feel confident in those guys being able to step up and help us.”
Sims was a late addition to the injury report after suffering a back injury. In his place, Houston elevated Desmond King from the practice squad to likely serve as the punt returner and add depth to Houston’s secondary.
Receivers Tank Dell and Xavier Hutchinson could also be used heavily in special teams as returners.
Kickoff is scheduled for noon CT.