Houston Texans Face Surprise DNP Ahead of Key Matchup With Colts

The Houston Texans entered Week 13 preparing for a crucial AFC South matchup, but their latest practice report delivered an unexpected twist. A surprise non-participant raised fresh questions for a team already managing several injuries in a tightly contested playoff race. For fans in Houston, the change adds new uncertainty to a game with major postseason implications.

Texans Record Surprise DNP on Thursday Report

The Texans listed an unexpected player as a DNP (did not participate) during Thursday's practice, according to the team’s updated injury report. While the organization has managed a rotating list of injured contributors this season, this specific name had not shown signs of concern earlier in the week.

Although Houston has not released additional details, surprise absences often signal either a new injury or an aggravation of an existing issue. With the Colts preparing aggressively for Sunday’s matchup, any sudden change to Houston’s lineup could influence the game plan on both sides of the ball.

Why It Matters for the Houston Texans

This week’s game carries significant weight for the Texans. Both teams remain in the hunt for playoff positioning, and division games often determine tiebreakers late in the season. Because of this, even one missing starter can alter the rhythm of the Texans’ offense or defense.

Additionally, the Texans are relying on continuity as their young roster continues to grow under head coach DeMeco Ryans. Sudden absences force roster reshuffling, which can disrupt communication and execution, especially against a Colts team that plays with speed and physicality.

• The Texans and Colts remain close in the AFC standings.
• Houston is still working through several existing injuries.
• A surprise DNP often leads to a game-time decision.

Impact on Houston Fans

Texans fans have watched a resilient team fight through injuries all season, and this latest update underscores how unpredictable the final stretch can be. Because the AFC race remains tight, every week has major implications for playoff positioning. Fans planning to fill NRG Stadium on Sunday will keep a close eye on the team’s Friday report, which usually offers stronger clues about a player’s availability.

Despite the uncertainty, Houston has shown steady improvement and the ability to adapt. The team’s next-man-up approach has already paid off multiple times this year, giving supporters confidence that the Texans can compete regardless of unexpected setbacks.

What’s Next for the Texans

The team will release its final injury report on Friday. That update will determine whether the surprise DNP remains a concern heading into the weekend or if the absence was precautionary. If the player remains limited or out, Houston may need to adjust its rotation and rely on depth to keep pace with Indianapolis.

Kickoff for the Texans-Colts matchup is scheduled for Sunday at NRG Stadium, where the atmosphere should be electric as Houston continues its push toward the postseason.

This article is a summary of reporting by Sports Illustrated. Read the full story here.