The Texans are heading into Sunday’s matchup against the Raiders with a mostly healthy roster and a couple of key names trending in the right direction.
Running back Nick Chubb, cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., and wide receiver Christian Kirk-all listed as questionable earlier in the week-are suiting up. That’s a big boost for a Texans squad looking to keep momentum going late in the season.
Chubb, who’s been managing a rib injury, will split backfield duties with rookie Jawhar Jordan, who made a splash in his NFL debut last week by racking up 101 rushing yards. With Woody Marks sidelined due to an ankle injury, expect Jordan to see a healthy dose of carries again, especially if Chubb is on a pitch count.
Stingley’s return from an oblique injury gives the Texans’ secondary a needed lift, especially against a Raiders offense that can stretch the field when it gets rolling. And while Kirk was dealing with illness, he’s cleared to play, giving Houston another reliable target in the passing game.
As for the inactives, linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair is out with ankle and knee issues-his absence will be felt in the middle of that defense. Wide receiver Braxton Berrios, quarterback Graham Mertz, cornerback Ameer Speed, defensive end Solomon Byrd, and offensive tackle Jarrett Kingston are also inactive. Mertz is designated as the emergency third quarterback.
On the Raiders’ side, they’ll be without running back Zamir White, which could thin out their ground game behind the starter. Quarterback Aidan O’Connell is inactive but will be available as the emergency third QB. Cornerback Darnay Holmes, tight end Ian Thomas, and defensive tackle Brodric Martin round out their inactive list.
With both teams managing injuries and depth adjustments, the spotlight shifts to how well the Texans can capitalize on the return of some key playmakers-and whether Jordan can build on his breakout debut.