With injuries piling up and a crucial Week 15 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals looming, the Houston Texans are taking no chances when it comes to roster depth. On Wednesday, the team brought back veteran fullback Jakob Johnson, signing him to the practice squad in a move that speaks volumes about how much the Texans value his versatility and experience.
Johnson Back in the Fold-Again
This isn’t Johnson’s first rodeo with Houston this season-or even this month. The 30-year-old has been bouncing between the active roster and practice squad, a testament to both his reliability and the ever-shifting needs of a roster navigating late-season attrition.
Just days ago, Johnson was waived to make room for newly claimed running back Cody Schrader. But after clearing waivers, he’s right back in the building.
Johnson’s return comes at a critical time. Running backs Woody Marks and Nick Chubb were both listed as “Did Not Participate” on Wednesday’s injury report, leaving Houston thin in the backfield and in need of a physical presence who knows the system. Johnson fits that bill perfectly.
More Than Just a Fullback
At 6-foot-3 and 255 pounds, Johnson brings more than just size-he brings flexibility. He’s capable of lining up at both fullback and tight end, which is no small thing for a Texans offense that’s been dealing with injuries at multiple skill positions.
While he hasn’t logged any offensive stats this season, his impact has been felt, particularly on special teams. Case in point: his blocked punt in Week 2, a momentum-shifting play that helped set the tone early in the season.
Johnson’s journey through the NFL has been anything but conventional. Originally from Germany, he entered the league in 2019 through the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program and carved out a role with the New England Patriots. After three seasons in Foxborough, he spent two years with the Raiders and had a brief stint with the Giants in 2024 before landing in Houston.
His connection with Texans Offensive Coordinator Nick Caley-who coached him in New England-adds another layer of familiarity that no doubt played a role in his latest return. In a league where continuity and trust matter, Johnson checks both boxes.
Texans Shuffling the Deck
Johnson’s signing wasn’t the only roster move the Texans made as they prepare for Sunday’s game. The team also designated wide receiver Justin Watson and tight end Harrison Bryant to return from injured reserve, opening their 21-day practice window. It’s a promising sign for a team that’s been forced to get creative with personnel down the stretch.
These moves reflect a broader strategy: stay flexible, stay ready. With the playoffs in sight, Houston is clearly focused on making sure every position group has depth and experience.
That’s where Johnson’s value really shines. He might not be a headline-grabber, but he’s the kind of player who can quietly make a difference-whether it’s clearing a path on a crucial third down or flipping field position on special teams.
What It Means Moving Forward
Johnson’s return to the practice squad doesn’t guarantee he’ll be on the field Sunday, but it does keep him in the mix. And with the Texans dealing with uncertainty in the backfield and at tight end, his name could be called sooner rather than later. For a team trying to solidify its playoff push, having a plug-and-play veteran who already knows the system is a luxury.
Bottom line: Jakob Johnson isn’t just a depth piece-he’s a trusted chess piece in the Texans’ late-season game plan.