Henry To'oTo'o is expected to miss several months after the Texans moved the linebacker to injured reserve, exceeding the designation's four-game minimum. The move was confirmed Tuesday, following reports Monday night from Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 and Sports Talk 790. To'oTo'o suffered an apparent shoulder injury against Buffalo, leaving late in the fourth quarter and later wearing a splint.
Coach DeMeco Ryans had said the injury would keep him out for a significant period. The report was published by sports.yahoo.com.
Jake Hansen is expected to start beside Pro Bowl linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair. Hansen finished the opener in To'oTo'o's place, playing seven defensive snaps. He has four career starts and 391 defensive snaps across his first five NFL seasons.
Wade Woodaz could become the third linebacker and play in the base defense. Woodaz had 22 special teams snaps but no defensive snaps in the opener. He is also wearing a protective brace after preseason thumb surgery.
Seventh-round pick Aidan Fisher could be available for Week 2 after sitting out the opener as a healthy inactive. Jamal Hill is another option to join the active roster from the practice squad. The injury adds to Houston's linebacker absences.
