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Are the Texans resting starters in Week 18 of the 2024 season? Read the NFL inactives report and top players sitting out including C.J. Stroud, Will Anderson, and more.
The Houston Texans have nothing to play for in their Week 18 game against the Tennessee Titans. The Texans have clinched the AFC South, giving them home-field advantage in the Wild Card Round. Likewise, the Titans are not fighting for a playoff spot, as they enter the game with only three victories.
While their second match against the Titans is a non-bearing game, 10 wins looks good on record. The Texans can achieve that by defeating Tennessee in their regular season finale.
That said, will head coach DeMeco Ryans have their starters compete in Week 18? If they do, will they play the entire game? Beyond the dilemma of resting their starters, key players could also sit out due to injury.
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Will the Houston Texans Rest Starters in Week 18?
Based on their official injury report, the Texans will have their usual starters play against the Titans. However, they have ruled out DE Denico Autry (knee), DT Foley Fatukasi (ankle), G Shaq Mason (knee), and CB Jeff Okudah (concussion) for their upcoming game. Meanwhile, linebackers Christian Harris (ankle) and Jamal Hill (hamstring) are questionable for Week 18.
BACK-TO-BACK DIVISION CHAMPS‼️ pic.twitter.com/5aS12CoyQk
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) December 16, 2024
Other than those players, it looks like other Texans starters will suit up in Week 18. However, given that they will compete in the playoffs, the Texans could be conservative with their playing time. Ryans could be a little bit generous with players chasing contract-based incentives.
UPDATE: C.J. Stroud, Joe Mixon, Nico Collins, and other healthy Texans starters are active. However, they are at risk of being pulled from the game against the Tennessee Titans early.
Who Will Start for the Houston Texans in Week 18?
Since he's not on the injury report, quarterback C.J. Stroud could start for the Texans. While the second-year quarterback has struggled this season, he’s still their best chance to win. However, regardless of the halftime score, they might bench him by the second half.
Likewise, offensive starters Joe Mixon, Nico Collins, Robert Woods, and John Metchie III will start. Pro Bowl tackle Laremy Tunsil will anchor the offensive line.
On defense, Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter will bring the heat from the defensive line, while Derek Stingley Jr. and Calen Bullock lead the secondary.
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