Wednesday's injury list showed Woody Marks and Nick Chubb as "Did Not Participate". With Sunday fast approaching to face-off against the Arizona Cardinals , Houston needed to make plans for the worst case. The Texans have once again bolstered their depth bysigning veteran fullback Jakob Johnson to the practice squad. This move,announced on Wednesday, December 10, marks another chapter in Johnson's seasonof bouncing between the active roster and the practice squad, highlighting hisvalue to the team's unique needs.
The decision to bring Johnson back comes shortly after hewas waived to make room for the claiming of running back Cody Schrader offwaivers. Clearing waivers allowed the Texans to quickly reunite with theGerman-born fullback, who is now in his sixth NFL season.
A Familiar Face Returns to Houston
Johnson, 30, originally signed with the Texans during theoffseason in March 2025 and has seen action in seven games this season, makingtwo starts. While he has not recorded any offensive stats, his contributionshave been notable on special teams, including a key blocked punt in the Texans'Week 2 matchup.
His versatility is a key asset for the Texans' rosterstructure, as the 6-foot-3, 255-pound player is capable of playing bothfullback and tight end—a particularly valuable trait given the team's ongoinginjury concerns at the tight end position.
Johnson's NFL journey began with the New England Patriots in2019 via the NFL's International Player Pathway Program. He spent three seasonsin New England and two with the Las Vegas Raiders before a brief stint with the New York Giants in 2024. His return to Houston's practice squad suggests thecoaching staff, including Offensive Coordinator Nick Caley (who coached him inNew England), appreciates the veteran presence and blocking ability heprovides.
Part of a Larger Roster Shift
Johnson's re-signing was announced alongside othersignificant roster moves as the Texans prepare for their upcoming Week 15interconference game. The team also designated wide receiver Justin Watson and tight end Harrison Bryant to return from injured reserve (IR),opening a three-week window for them to practice before being added back to theactive 53-man roster.
These transactions underscore the Texans managing roster flexibility and depth as they push toward the end of theregular season, ensuring they have experienced players available acrossmultiple positions. For Johnson, this practice squad placement means he remainsan immediate option for elevation to the active roster should the team need hisblocking or special teams expertise in the coming weeks.
