(This story was updated to add new information.)
The Houston Texans trail 20-17 at halftime in an AFC South bout against the Tennessee Titans, but there’s a much more prominent concern entering the second half.
Star defensive back Jalen Pitre left just before halftime after holding onto his shoulder while walking off the field. According to the Texans’ public relations staff, he’s currently being evaluated for a shoulder injury.
Pitre, who switched from safety to the nickel position this offseason, has been one of Houston’s better open-field tacklers for DeMeco Ryans’ defense in Year 2. The Texans are thin without him since cornerback Jeff Okudah was ruled out before Sunday’s showdown at NRG Stadium.
Here’s everything to know of Pitre’s injury:
Jalen Pitre injury update
Pitre exited Sunday’s game against the Titans and went to the locker room, according to the CBS broadcast. He is currently being evaluated for a shoulder injury.
According to the Texans’ PR staff, Pitre will not return for the second half. Now the question turns to if he’ll miss next week’s matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars before the bye in Week 14.
Texans Injury Update:
#5 S Jalen Pitre has been downgraded to out with a shoulder injury.
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) November 24, 2024
Will Jalen Pitre return?
Pitre will not return for the second half on defense.
Jalen Pitre stats
In 11 games, Pitre leads Houston with 64 total tackles and eight pass deflections. He’s also recorded an interception and forced a fumble.
Texans DB Depth Chart
For Sunday’s game, the expectation is for Jimmie Ward to move down to the nickel position while Calen Bullock and Eric Murray man the safety spot. Houston also could play a three-linebacker set with Neville Hewitt as the new MIKE backer and Azeez Al-Shaair in coverage as the team’s starting WILL.
