Arizona Cardinals Face Critical Health Decisions Ahead of Texans Clash

The Arizona Cardinals released their second injury report of Week 15 on Thursday. Key players showed mixed progress ahead of Sunday’s road game against the Houston Texans. Safety Budda Baker returned to practice fully after a personal day. Star rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. remained sidelined for a second straight day.

This critical late-season matchup could hinge on the availability of several starters. According to reports, the team’s final practice on Friday will determine official game statuses. The Cardinals are fighting for playoff positioning in the NFC.

Detailed Injury Report Reveals Shifts

The Cardinals’ Thursday report listed eight players as Did Not Participate. This group includes wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. with a heel issue. Tackle Paris Johnson Jr. and safety Jalen Thompson were also non-participants.

Notably, cornerback Max Melton was downgraded from limited to out. Meanwhile, veterans like Josh Sweat and Dalvin Tomlinson returned to limited work. They had been rested on Wednesday for recovery purposes.

The Houston Texans’ injury report was less crowded. Star running back Nick Chubb missed practice again with a rib injury. However, the Texans did see eight players upgraded from Wednesday‘s session. This suggests better overall health for the home team.

Game Planning Around Key Absences

The potential absence of Marvin Harrison Jr. would be a major blow. He is quarterback Kyler Murray’s top receiving target this season. The Cardinals’ offense would need other playmakers to step up in Houston.

Defensively, facing Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud is challenging enough. Doing so without key defenders like Thompson or Melton increases the difficulty. The team’s depth will be tested at NRG Stadium.

Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon praised Texans defender Will Anderson Jr. this week. He highlighted Anderson’s elite intangibles and skillset pre-draft. Arizona must now scheme to block the talented edge rusher.

The final Week 15 injury report will clarify the Cardinals’ available arsenal. Their playoff hopes may depend on navigating this health crisis successfully. The team’s depth faces a stern test in Houston.

Thought you’d like to know

Is Marvin Harrison Jr. playing this Sunday?

His status is uncertain. Harrison missed both Wednesday and Thursday practices with a heel injury. His participation on Friday will be a major indicator for his game-day availability.

Which Cardinals player returned to practice?

Safety Budda Baker practiced fully on Thursday. He had missed Wednesday’s session for personal reasons. His return is a positive sign for the secondary.

Who is out for the Houston Texans?

Running back Nick Chubb did not practice Thursday due to a rib injury. Cornerback Kamari Lassiter is also dealing with a foot issue. Their statuses are worth monitoring.

Why are veterans listed as limited?

Players like Kelvin Beachum and Dalvin Tomlinson had “rest” listed. This is a common maintenance strategy for veteran players during a long season. It is not typically a concern for game day.

When are final statuses announced?

Official game statuses are released after Friday’s practice. The designations are “out,” “doubtful,” “questionable,” or no status. Inactives are announced 90 minutes before kickoff.