Christian Harris is officially back for the Houston Texans.
The Texans added the third-year linebacker back to the active roster after clearing him off the injured reserve earlier this week. He’ll take the roster spot of defensive back Jalen Pitre, who will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a chest injury in Week 12.
We have activated Christian Harris from the Reserve/Injured list and elevated Irv Smith Jr. via standard practice squad elevation. pic.twitter.com/ne109VLspa
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) December 14, 2024
Harris, who finished second with 101 tackles for the Texans in 2023, has been on injured reserve since training camp with a calf injury. He’s nearly worked his way back twice but suffered setbacks that led to Houston being cautious with his recovery time.
Expectations around the locker room have been that he’ll play on Sunday against the Miami Dolphins. While listed as questionable, removal from the injured reserve is a sign that he’s likely trending toward playing.
“I don’t know how they’re gonna play it in terms of a snap count,” Texans running back Joe Mixon told reporters earlier this week. “But I know for a fact, when he enters, he’s gonna give us 1,000 percent. I think it’s gonna be a great uplift for the defense.”
Loading 😈 pic.twitter.com/52yUv5mEG9
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) December 14, 2024
Harris’ return should be a big lift, especially with fellow linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair suspended for the next three games. The Texans have also been short-handed at the linebacker spot multiple times this season and can’t afford to not have someone covering Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith.
Kickoff from NRG Stadium is scheduled for noon CT.
