Henry To'oTo'o is expected to miss more than the four games required under injured-reserve rules after the Houston Texans moved him to the list ahead of Week 2. He suffered an apparent shoulder injury against the Buffalo Bills, departing late in the fourth quarter and later being seen with a splint.
The designation was made official Tuesday. Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 and Sports Talk 790 had reported Monday night that the move was expected, while coach DeMeco Ryans said To'oTo'o would be out for significant time. He is projected to miss a few months.
Jake Hansen is set to take over as a starting linebacker beside Pro Bowl selection Azeez Al-Shaair. Hansen replaced To'oTo'o in the opener and played seven defensive snaps. He has four starts and 391 defensive snaps across his first five NFL seasons.
Wade Woodaz could become the third linebacker and play in the base defense after recording 22 special teams snaps in the opener. He did not play on defense and is wearing a protective brace after thumb surgery for a preseason injury.
Seventh-round pick Aidan Fisher could be available in Week 2 after being inactive as a healthy scratch, and Jamal Hill could be promoted from the practice squad. The Texans also are without E.J. Speed, who is expected to miss the 2026 season with a severe quadriceps tear, and Jake Hummel, who is week-to-week with a groin injury.
