Sometimes in the NFL, a veteran’s new beginning feels like a clean slate. The page turns, the playbook changes, and a fresh city brings new hope. And it was that chance to prove his worth all over again for a seasoned wide receiver. But the football gods have a funny way of rewriting scripts when we least expect it.
Just two games into his Houston tenure, that new chapter has been put on hold. According to NFL reporter Aaron Wilson of KPRC2, "Texans veteran wide receiver Justin Watson is sidelined indefinitely with a calf muscle-Achilles injury." The injury occurred during Monday night’s game against the Buccaneers while he was recovering a blocked punt.
The report clarifies, "Watson didn’t tear it and could return at some point this season." He is now headed for injured reserve. Besides, this is a brutal twist for Watson.
He signed a two-year, $5 million deal with Houston in March after winning two Super Bowls with the Chiefs. Through two games, he had three catches for 30 yards. More importantly, he had logged 55 snaps. He was a trusted, veteran presence for a young offense. Now, his absence creates an immediate void. Who will step up in his place?
The Texans' offense has sputtered, scoring a league-low 28 points in 2 weeks. C.J. Stroud hasn't topped 300 yards since Week 5 of 2024. Watson’s injury forces Houston’s hand. Fortunately, reinforcements are coming. Christian Kirk and Braxton Berrios are expected back from their own hamstring issues. And their return cannot come soon enough. This offense desperately needs a spark.
A Silver Lining and a Steeper Climb For Justin Watson and Houston
Watson’s IR designation means he must miss at least four games. The silver lining is the absence of a tear. As Wilson noted, it’s a "potential injured reserve-designated for return situation." This isn’t a career-ender, but it’s a major setback. For a player known for his leadership, watching from the sidelines will be a new kind of challenge.
His injury thrusts the Texans' rookie receivers into the spotlight. Second-round pick Jayden Higgins has shown flashes, with a 28-yard reception against Tampa Bay. His 2.31 yards per route run leads the team’s depth players. Third-rounder Jaylin Noel, a natural slot receiver, now has a clearer path to more snaps. The kids are being called up to the majors, ready or not.
This situation is ironically beneficial for the Chiefs. Kansas City’s own receiver struggles are well-documented. Watson’s knowledge of their system could have been a strategic advantage when these teams meet later this season. Now, Houston must navigate this injury without his veteran savvy on the field.
Football breaks hearts faster than a diner running out of apple pie at lunch. Watson’s setback reminds every roster hopeful that the next snap can be the last. His season isn’t over, but it has certainly been flipped on its head. For now, the journeyman waits, the rookies leap, and the Texans pray the points pile up before the calendar flips to winter.