The Houston Texans are riding a five-game win streak, but as they head into a pivotal Week 15 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, they may have to do it without one of their breakout stars in the secondary.
Cornerback Kamari Lassiter is trending toward a game-time decision after suffering a foot injury during Houston’s Week 14 win over the Kansas City Chiefs. It’s a tough blow, especially considering Lassiter was playing some of his best football of the season before he exited. He capped off that performance with a fourth-quarter interception of Patrick Mahomes - a moment that not only sealed the win but also underscored just how far the second-year corner has come in a short time.
Lassiter hasn’t practiced since the injury, logging back-to-back DNPs on Wednesday and Thursday. That’s never a great sign this late in the week, especially for a player who’s become such a key part of the Texans' defensive identity.
Let’s be clear - Lassiter’s 2025 campaign has been a revelation. In just his second year, he’s emerged as arguably the most improved player on the roster, forming a formidable tandem with All-Pro Derek Stingley Jr.
His numbers speak for themselves: 72 tackles, three interceptions, and 12 pass breakups through 13 games. But it’s not just the stats - it’s the confidence, the instincts, the way he’s reading routes and closing space.
He’s playing like a veteran, and Houston’s defense has reaped the benefits.
If Lassiter can’t go, defensive coordinator Matt Burke will have to shuffle the deck. Expect Myles Bryant to slide outside from his usual nickel role, while Tremon Smith and Ameer Speed could see increased reps.
The Texans also have Ja'Marcus Ingram tucked away on the depth chart - a player who caught the eye of Sean McDermott before the Bills let him go. He’s raw, but intriguing.
Lassiter isn’t the only name to watch on the injury report. Offensive tackle Tytus Howard missed Thursday’s practice, though the team clarified his absence was for personal reasons, not injury-related. Running back Nick Chubb also sat out, continuing a trend that’s worth monitoring as game day approaches.
There was a bit of positive news: Woody Marks and Denico Autry were back in limited action after sitting Wednesday, and Azeez Al-Shaair, Sheldon Rankins, and Trent Brown all returned to full participation. That’s a solid sign for a defense that’s been quietly consistent during this win streak.
And on the offensive side, veteran wide receiver Justin Watson is inching closer to a return. He remains on injured reserve for now, but he logged a full practice Thursday - his first since the team opened his 21-day activation window. That’s a step in the right direction for a Houston receiving corps that could use a steady veteran presence down the stretch.
As for the Cardinals, their own injury list is even more concerning. Eight players sat out Thursday’s practice, including four starters from last week’s lineup. That’s a lot of uncertainty for a team trying to play spoiler against one of the hottest squads in the AFC.
For Houston, the focus remains on staying sharp, staying healthy, and keeping this momentum rolling. But if Kamari Lassiter can't suit up, the Texans’ secondary will be tested - and we’re about to find out just how deep this defense really is.