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Houston Texans continue preparations for their Week 16 home matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders with a lengthy injury report that features 13 players.
While the Texans enter Sunday’s contest at 9-5 and firmly in the playoff picture, several key contributors carry uncertain designations that could influence game-day decisions at NRG Stadium.
Texans rule out two players for Raiders matchup
Wide receiver Justin Watson and defensive end Darrell Taylor have both been ruled out despite logging full participation in practice.
Watson is dealing with a calf injury, while Taylor continues to recover from an ankle issue after appearing in just three games this season. Their absences slightly thin Houston’s depth at wide receiver and along the defensive front.
Christian Kirk among notable questionable players
The most closely monitored name on the report is Christian Kirk, who is listed as questionable due to illness. Kirk did not participate in practice and enters the week with 22 receptions for 204 yards and one touchdown on 40 targets. His availability would be significant for a Texans offense that relies on his route running and slot versatility.
Running back Woody Marks is also questionable after limited participation with an ankle injury. Marks has been a workhorse in the backfield, totaling 584 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 167 carries.
Fellow running back Nick Chubb, dealing with a ribs issue, practiced fully and remains questionable, giving Houston Texans potential flexibility in the run game.
Defensive starters trending toward availability
Several key defensive players are listed as questionable but showed encouraging signs during the week. Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. was limited with an oblique injury.
He remains a crucial piece of the secondary, recording three interceptions and 12 passes defended this season.
Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair did not practice due to an ankle injury and is questionable after leading the team with 96 tackles. His status will be worth monitoring ahead of kickoff.
Multiple Texans fully cleared
Houston received positive updates elsewhere, with several players practicing fully. This group includes Denico Autry, Sheldon Rankins, Trent Brown, Jake Hansen, E.J. Speed, and Kamari Lassiter. Rankins has posted 2.5 sacks and five tackles for loss, while Lassiter has been a standout in the secondary with four interceptions and 14 passes defended.
Game details
Houston Texans host the Raiders on Sunday, December 21, at 4:25 p.m. ET at NRG Stadium as they look to maintain momentum late in the season.
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