HOUSTON – The Texans’ already depleted defense absorbed another tough hit Sunday against the Cleveland Browns as three starters left the game with injuries with one returning to action.
Defensive end Jonathan Greenard (ankle), cornerback Steven Nelson (foot) and safety Jimmie Ward (quadriceps) were all listed as questionable to return initially with Greenard and Ward ruled out at halftime. Nelson went back into the game in the first half and finished the game, a 36-22 loss Sunday at NRG Stadium.
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Greenard tested his ankle on the sideline, hopping around after being examined in the blue medical tent. He leads the Texans with a career-high 12 1/2 sacks. There was immediate concern about a potential high-ankle sprain and Greenard is expected to undergo imaging exams, per a league source.
Ward, a team captain, just returned from a concussion sustained against the Tennessee Titans. He has strained his quadriceps previously this year and will also undergo testing.
The Texans defense was already playing without starting linebacker Blake Cashman (strained hamstring) and rookie defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (high ankle sprain).
“We lost guys in this game, and of course, injuries suck for everybody, it happens,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. “But, at the end of the day, there’s a game to be played. The game isn’t going to stop just because we have injuries. So, for us, and my mindset of how we attack it is whoever steps in, just do your job.
“Be where you’re supposed to be. Everybody’s being where they’re supposed to be and doing what they’re supposed to do, we still have a shot there. No matter what injury happens, we still expect guys to go out and play their best.”
Aaron Wilson is a Texans and NFL reporter for KPRC 2 and click2houston.com.