Pro Football Rumors
Like most NFL teams, the Texans were not at full strength during spring practices, but multiple injured players are expected to be back at 100% for training camp.
Among them are linebacker Jamal Hill, who underwent surgery on a ligament in his wrist earlier this offseason, according to KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson. The 2024 sixth-rounder participated in Houston’s OTAs and should complete his rehab by the start of training camp in late July.
Hill is one of several Texans in the mix for the No. 3 linebacker job following a season-ending injury to E.J. Speed. Azeez Al-Shaair, fresh off a $18MM per-year extension, and 2023 fifth-round pick Henry To’oTo’o are returning to their starting roles, but Speed’s 429 snaps still need to be filled. Hill has appeared in 20 games across his first two NFL seasons, but just three of his 368 snaps have come on defense. Assuming his remaining recovery goes smoothly, he will compete with four-year veteran Jake Hansen and free agent signings Marte Mapu and Jake Hummel for a role on defense.
Former Buccaneers defensive lineman Logan Hall, who signed a two-year, $13.75MM deal with the Texans this offseason, is recovering from knee tendonitis and a minor groin injury, Wilson reports. He, too, is expected to be ready for training camp, where he will look to carve out a role along Houston’s defensive line. The 2022 second-rounder broke out in 2024 with 5.5 sacks and six tackles for loss – both career-highs – but managed just 1.5 sacks and two TFLs last year.
Cornerback Ajani Carter is also working his way back from arthroscopic knee surgery, per Wilson. He appeared in two games as an undrafted rookie last year, with all of his playing time coming on special teams. Carter was waived by the Texans with an injury designation in May, requiring him to reach an injury settlement with the team before returning to the field, which may not necessarily be in Houston.
