The Houston Texans might be without their star defensive player for the remainder of Thursday’s game against New York Jets on Halloween. Hopefully, the injury won’t carry over to next Week’s showdown against the Detroit Lions.
Will Anderson Jr.’s night could be over depending on the severity of the injury suffered in the first quarter at MetLife Stadium.
Here’s what happened and his status.
Will Anderson Jr. injury update
Anderson, who was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Month earlier Thursday afternoon, was rolled up on during the first quarter on a run by Jets star Breece Hall. He was down on the ground after suffering an injury and needed help from the medical staff.
Anderson began to work drills after leaving the blue medical tent and got his left ankle taped up before returning to the field for several plays. He was limited during the second quarter, only seeing action on pass-rushing downs against Aaron Rodgers.
After halftime, the Amazon Prime Video broadcast announced that Anderson was questionable to return with an ankle injury.
Texans Injury Update:
#51 DE Will Anderson Jr. is questionable with an ankle injury.
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) November 1, 2024
Will Will Anderson Jr. return for Thursday Night Football?
The Texans have listed Anderson as questionable for the remainder of Thursday’s game. The former All-American was replaced by a rotation of Denico Autry and Derek Barnett, who should hold their own in place of the former No. 3 overall pick.
Before his injury, Anderson had a tackle for loss against Hall on the opening drive.
Will Anderson Jr. stats
One of the rising stars off the edge entering his second season, Anderson had totaled 7.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss entering Thursday’s game. He currently leads the NFL in tackles for loss and ranks third in sacks, trailing only New York Jets second-year defensive end Will McDonald and New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence.
Texans DE depth chart
With Anderson out with an injury, here’s the rest of the defensive ends on the active roster: