The Houston Texans have made their name this season with a defense that’s been nothing short of dominant. At its peak, it’s looked downright unbreakable-ranking top-five in just about every major defensive category.
But as the season grinds on, the wear and tear is starting to show. Injuries are beginning to chip away at what’s been the backbone of this team’s playoff push.
Just under two weeks after losing starting defensive tackle Tim Settle Jr. to a season-ending foot injury, the Texans are now down another key piece on the interior. Head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed that veteran defensive lineman Mario Edwards is also done for the year after tearing his pectoral muscle during Houston’s 40-20 win over the Arizona Cardinals.
“Unfortunately, Mario Edwards will be out for the season,” Ryans said. “He ruptured his pec… Mario's done a great job for us all year.
Steady player, consistent, and brings great energy to our entire team. So, really going to miss his presence.”
That presence Ryans is talking about? It’s more than just locker room leadership.
Edwards has been one of those glue guys-maybe not a household name like Will Anderson Jr. or Danielle Hunter, but a critical part of the Texans' interior rotation. His ability to collapse the pocket and hold his ground against the run helped free up the edge rushers and made life easier for the secondary.
In 14 games this season, Edwards recorded 13 tackles and 1.5 sacks. Solid, if not flashy.
But his impact went beyond the stat sheet. He brought effort, discipline, and a motor that never stopped.
Earlier this year, he was even named the Texans' nominee for the NFL’s Salute to Service Award, which honors players who go above and beyond in supporting military and veteran communities. That speaks volumes about the kind of teammate and person he is.
Now, with both Settle and Edwards sidelined, the Texans’ depth on the interior defensive line is being put to the test. It’s going to fall on the shoulders of guys like Sheldon Rankins and Tommy Togiai to step up and anchor the middle. Rankins has been a steady veteran presence, while Togiai will have a chance to carve out a bigger role in the rotation.
For a defense that’s been the heartbeat of this team, this stretch run is going to require more than just talent-it’s going to take resilience. The Texans have built their identity on physicality and discipline. Now, with the postseason in sight, they’ll need every bit of that grit to keep the engine running without two of their interior enforcers.