The Houston Texans, currently standing at 7-6, find themselves not only in the midst of the AFC Playoffs race but also leading in the unfortunate statistic of having the most players on injured reserve this NFL season – a staggering 17.
Despite initial expectations that the Texans might not secure even half the victories they have now, Coach DeMeco Ryans remains steadfast, refusing to use the mounting injuries as a potential excuse for falling short of their goals.
Ryans, addressing the substantial player injuries, asserts that it hasn’t impacted their approach. Unwilling to make excuses, he emphasizes the universality of injuries in the league.
Even with a higher-than-average number of injuries, Ryans remains resolute, stating, “We line up on Sunday with whoever we have, and everybody go out and play your best.”
The Texans’ Week 13 triumph over the Denver Broncos, however, came at a cost with rookie receiver Tank Dell succumbing to injury, joining the extensive list of sidelined players.
Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik expresses the gravity of Dell’s injury, deeming it “gut-wrenching” due to the significant role the rookie played in the team’s success.
Complicating matters, quarterback C.J. Stroud is in concussion protocol, potentially missing the upcoming Week 15 clash against the Tennessee Titans. While not on the injured reserve, Stroud’s absence poses a challenge for Ryans and Slowik, who must decide between backup quarterbacks Davis Mills and veteran Case Keenum.
Ryans acknowledges the perennial nature of losing key players but underscores the importance of response, urging his team not to dwell on injuries but to focus on overcoming adversity.
As the Texans navigate these challenges, with Mills listed as the backup quarterback and having stepped in during the previous week’s loss against the New York Jets when Stroud was sidelined, the team faces a crucial test against the Titans, emphasizing the resilience required to contend in the NFL despite a roster besieged by injuries.
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