Starting right tackle Trent Brown returned to practice after missing Wednesday and Thursday, and he’s anticipated to play Sunday. 🛡️ Brown, a 2018 Super Bowl champion with the Patriots, has been a steady presence since Week 10, having only missed one game this season. His availability is significant because the Texans have shuffled their offensive line due to injuries, even as Stroud posted the lowest sack rate of his career in the 2025 regular season.
The Patriots come in with a stout defense, ranking fourth in scoring and eighth overall, even though their pass rush isn’t prolific — tied for the fifth-fewest sacks and ninth-lowest pressure rate in the league. 🔬 That blend of stingy defense and disciplined pressure will test Houston’s attack as Stroud looks to execute on a shorter week.
Houston will still be without Pro Bowl wide receiver Nico Collins, who remains in concussion protocol and did not practice. 😟 Collins, a two-time Pro Bowler and Stroud’s top target, has a history of concussions this season, and his absence would be a significant blow to the Texans’ plans. He had three receptions for 21 yards in the Wild Card win over the Steelers, underscoring what the offense would miss if he’s sidelined.
On the brighter side, defensive lineman Denico Autry was back on the Texans’ practice field, providing a spark for their front. 🧩 With Collins out and the offense adjusting on a short week, Stroud’s resilience will be tested, but his favorable 2025 sack-rate trajectory and Brown’s return give Houston reasons for optimism as they aim to counter a challenging Patriots defense.
