The Texans are heading into Sunday’s divisional showdown against the Patriots without a couple of key pieces on offense - and that could have a serious impact on how they approach this game.
Right tackle Trent Brown is officially inactive due to an ankle injury. He gave it a go in pregame warmups, trying to test the ankle, but ultimately wasn’t able to suit up. Brown didn’t practice on Wednesday or Thursday, and while he was limited on Friday, it wasn’t enough to get him to the starting line.
With Brown sidelined, the Texans are expected to shuffle their offensive line. Tytus Howard, who’s been holding it down at left guard, is likely to slide over to right tackle - a position he’s played before.
That move opens the door for Jarrett Patterson to step in at left guard. It’s a significant adjustment, especially in a playoff atmosphere, but Houston has leaned on versatility all season, and they’ll need it again here.
That’s not the only blow to the offense. Wide receiver Nico Collins is out with a concussion he suffered during Monday night’s win over the Steelers.
Collins has been one of the Texans’ most reliable targets this season, so his absence will be felt in both the short and intermediate passing game. With Collins and Justin Watson both inactive, Braxton Berrios is active and could see an uptick in opportunities.
On the Patriots’ side, they catch a break with linebacker Harold Landry active despite being questionable with a knee issue. Landry’s presence gives New England a boost in their pass rush, which could be even more impactful given the Texans’ reshuffled offensive line.
Here’s a full look at the inactives for both teams:
Texans inactives:
- RT Trent Brown (ankle)
- WR Nico Collins (concussion)
- WR Justin Watson
- RB Jawhar Jordan
- QB Graham Mertz
- CB Alijah Huzzie
Patriots inactives:
- QB Tommy DeVito
- OLB Bradyn Swinson
- OT Marcus Bryant
- G Caedan Wallace
- TE CJ Dippre
- CB Kobee Minor
- DT Eric Gregory
Houston’s offense will need to get creative without two of its top weapons and a key anchor on the line. Against a Patriots defense that’s known for adjusting on the fly, the Texans’ ability to adapt - and protect their quarterback - could be the difference between advancing and heading home.