The Houston Texans are bracing for the absence of Stefon Diggs for their Thursday night game against the New York Jets, a development anticipated due to the short week. As the team prepared for Tuesday’s walkthrough, Diggs’ status for the remainder of the regular season remains uncertain.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans provided minimal information regarding Diggs’ condition, indicating that the team is “still evaluating to see where he is.”
Diggs, a four-time Pro Bowl receiver, sustained a non-contact knee injury late in the third quarter during Sunday’s 23-21 victory over the Indianapolis Colts and did not return to the game. Although he managed to leave the field unaided, he remained on the ground for several minutes while receiving medical attention from the Texans’ staff.
Although Houston did not hold a practice on Monday, an injury report revealed that Diggs would not have participated. Tuesday’s session was more of a walkthrough, and the Texans are not required to disclose any player statuses until Wednesday’s injury report is released.
According to reports, Diggs was scheduled for an MRI on Monday to assess the extent of the injury. Speculation surrounding the nature of the injury includes possible ACL damage, an MCL sprain, or a minor LCL tear.
Several medical professionals on social media have expressed concern that the injury could be an ACL tear, but the MRI results should provide more clarity.
With Nico Collins currently sidelined due to a hamstring issue, Diggs had emerged as the Texans’ primary receiving option. Through eight games, he leads the team with 47 receptions, ranks second with 492 receiving yards, and is tied for the team lead with three touchdown catches.
Before his injury, Diggs was on track for his first 100-yard game of the season, finishing with five receptions for 81 yards, including a long catch of 49 yards in the third quarter.
Texans Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud expressed concern for Diggs, stating, “Prayers go out to Stef. God doesn’t make any mistakes. I hope he’s OK… Not easy seeing him go down.”
Despite the injuries to key players like Collins and Diggs, the Texans have several capable options to fill the gaps. Tight end Dalton Schultz contributed with five catches for 52 yards, while second-year receiver Tank Dell scored a 7-yard touchdown just before halftime.
In response to inquiries about other skill players stepping up following Diggs’ injury, Texans General Manager Nick Caserio highlighted contributions from various young players, including Xavier Hutchinson.
John Metchie III made an impact in Diggs’ absence with three receptions for 29 yards, featuring a crucial 28-yard catch in the third quarter. Meanwhile, both Xavier Hutchinson and Robert Woods showed their potential, each catching passes beyond 12 yards during the victory.
Stroud emphasized the need for his teammates to rise to the occasion in the days ahead as they prepare to face the Jets, who, despite their 2-6 record, are a formidable opponent in the passing game, averaging 161.1 passing yards per game.
Kickoff at MetLife Stadium is set for 7:15 p.m.