Texans Practice Injuries
Texans starting right tackle Braden Smith carted off with apparent foot injury.
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Key Points
1
Braden Smith's contract value with the Texans appears reported differently by outlets: one piece cites a two-year, $25 million deal, while another lists it as two years for $20 million.
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Ali Gaye was claimed off waivers from the Titans in May, adding to the Texans' defensive depth as a reserve edge defender.
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If Braden Smith cannot play, Trent Brown is viewed as the likely replacement at right tackle, providing a contingency plan for the Texans' line.
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Both Smith and Gaye were reported to suffer leg injuries and could not put weight on their legs after the incidents.
Houston Texans right tackle Braden Smith was carted off the field during Wednesday's joint practice with the Carolina Panthers due to a foot injury, according to ESPN. Reserve defensive end Ali Gaye was also carted off during separate incidents on different practice fields. Coach DeMeco Ryans has not disclosed the severity of either injury or their availability for the preseason finale Friday.
Smith, a two-year starter for Houston, signed a two-year deal with the team and has appeared in 105 NFL games. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Smith is believed to have a foot injury. Gaye, an undrafted free agent claimed off waivers from the Titans in May, has recorded nine tackles and one sack in his young career.
Right Tackle Braden Smith's Injury Status Unclear
Smith was unable to put weight on his leg after the incident during Wednesday's practice. Freedom 96.9 and USA Today both reported that he was carted off the field. The exact nature and severity of the foot injury remain unknown. Team officials have not made a public statement about his Week 1 availability.
Trent Brown Becomes Backup Plan at Right Tackle
If Smith cannot play, veteran Trent Brown is viewed as the likely replacement at right tackle for Houston. Brown provides immediate depth for the Texans' offensive line. His availability ensures the team has an experienced starter ready if Smith misses time. The team will face the Panthers again Friday for the preseason finale.
Ali Gaye Also Sidelined With Leg Injury
Reserve defensive end Ali Gaye was carted off from the practice fields on different grounds than Smith, also suffering a leg-related injury. ABC 11 and WRAL reported both players could not put weight on their legs. Gaye's exact injury status and availability for Friday's game have not been announced. His role as a backup edge rusher means the depth chart could shift if he misses time.
Preseason Finale Against Panthers Faces Uncertainty
The Texans and Panthers are scheduled to meet Friday at Bank of America Stadium for their preseason finale. Both teams will likely adjust their rotation strategies given the injuries. Uncertainty surrounds Smith's availability for Week 1 of the regular season. The next 48 hours will be critical in determining which players can participate in Friday's game.
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