Texans second-year Edge Will Anderson Jr. might be iffy for Week 1. Anderson hasn't practiced since the week of the Hall of Fame game, which opened the preseason on Aug. 1. HC Demeco Ryans reportedly gave no specific info on Anderson's outlook after Monday's closed walkthrough.
Ryans: "We'll see where we go throughout the week. Feeling good about all our guys. Ready to get rolling for the year."
Even if Anderson proves ready to play in this game, it's tough to expect him to be back to full strength -- or full participation -- after a month off practice.
That means you should try to plan on a replacement for Sunday's opener against the Colts. Houston would likely play some combo of Jerry Hughes and Derek Barnett in Anderson's place. Neither should be your insurance play.
Matchups with Chicago and Minnesota look potentially favorable for Anderson the following two weeks, if he does prove "ready to get rolling."
We'll see about his status throughout this practice week.
Colts QB Anthony Richardson and RB Jonathan Taylor would benefit from Anderson not being ready for Week 1.
Pro Football Focus graded Anderson top-30 among 198 edge players in both run defense and pass-rushing as a rookie.
Houston will also miss DL Denico Autry, who is suspended the first six games for a PED violation.
Anderson sits well down our Week 1 DL rankings, with some potential to move up if there's good news this week on his ankle.
He remains a fine bet for the season if your IDP league has yet to draft.
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