Texans receive discouraging injury updates before pivotal matchup vs. Titans

Aaron Wilson of KPRC-TV in Houston reported rookie edge-rusher Will Anderson Jr. is not expected to play Sunday against the Tennessee Titans, and it's unclear when he'll return. The third overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft suffered a high ankle sprain in a Week 14 loss to the New York Jets (5-8), hasn't practiced and was spotted wearing a walking boot.

Through 13 games, Anderson Jr. is third on the team in tackles for loss (eight), tied for first in QB hits (19) and second in sacks (five). As of Thursday, oddschecker places him within its top 10 Defensive Rookie of the Year odds.  

Meanwhile, Houston rookie QB C.J. Stroud — who's second in the league in passing yards (3,631) — is still in concussion protocol and will not practice Thursday, per NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero. If he can't play on Sunday, expect backup QB Davis Mills to fill in. The former second-round pick has a 5-19-1 record as a starter.

The Texans (7-6) are eighth in the AFC, just outside the playoff picture. Their road matchup against Tennessee (5-8) is pivotal. Per the New York Times Simulator, their postseason chances will increase from 35 percent to 52 percent if they win; if they lose, they decrease to 20 percent. Injuries to two of their best players could have a major impact. As of Thursday, oddschecker lists the Titans as a three-point favorite.

Houston needs other players to step up and contribute. Otherwise, the possibility that it will make its first postseason appearance since 2019 will continue to dwindle.