Christian Harris is expected to play for the Houston Texans in 2024. It just won’t be happening this week against the New England Patriots.
Texans coach DeMeco Ryans told reporters Monday that Harris is inching his way back from a hip injury but will not be cleared to practice just yet.
A former third-round pick out of Alabama, Harris has yet to play a snap since the start of training camp due to the injury suffered this summer. He was eligible to return from the injured reserve following the end of camp.
Ryans said that the team is “still waiting” on Harris to show a bit more improvement in the recovery process before putting him on the field.
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“He is doing well,” Ryans said. “We actually had Christian down on the sideline yesterday which was encouraging to see him down there, see his support, his energy that he brings to our team. We are pulling for him to get back at the right time.”
Last season, Harris was one of the breakout defensive stars en route to helping Houston secure a division title. After totaling 74 tackles as a rookie, he bumped his numbers up to 101 tackles, plus two sacks in Year 2.
Ryans said he wasn’t worried about Harris having regression set in because of missed reps and is excited to have him back whenever he is cleared.
“Whenever we can get Christian back, it’ll be beneficial for everyone,” Ryans said. “I am excited about his growth and his development. I’m still very encouraged by that and Christian will pick up right where he left off.”
With Harris still expected to be sidelined, the Texans will turn back to Henry To’oTo’o. Ryans pleased the second-year linebacker for his performance in coverage against the Buffalo Bills in Sunday’s 23-20 victory.
“Henry had one of his better games this past week,” Ryans said. “He’s playing physical, he’s playing fast, just all over the field. So, encouraged with his growth and his improvement. Coach [Bill] Davis has done a great job with helping his development.”
