The injury bug never stops biting, and right when we’re deep into Week 2 of preseason, some brutal news just dropped. Texans second-year wide receiver Jayden Higgins is officially out for the entire 2026 season because of a torn ACL. Talk about a gut punch for Houston; they’ll need Nico Collins, Jaylin Noel, Tank Dell, and Xavier Hutchinson to step up big time on the depth chart now. It’s a harsh reminder that preseason can be just as unforgiving as any other game.
Injuries Piling Up: LaPorta and Warren Status Updates
Higgins isn’t the only one making headlines on the injury report. Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta is out with a hip injury, and this one could be way more serious than anyone wants to admit. Dude missed most of 2025 and even needed surgery on his back for a herniated disc. While the hip issue supposedly isn’t linked to his past back problems, it certainly makes you wonder. Head coach Dan Campbell sounded cautiously optimistic, saying he *feels* like LaPorta will be ready for Week 1. But honestly, hearing “we’ll see” around a player with that kind of history? That ups his risk factor dramatically, especially for fantasy drafters looking for value. You absolutely need a backup plan if you’re eyeing him.
Meanwhile, Colts tight end Tyler Warren is also sidelined, but his groin injury is a lot less concerning. He’s expected back next week, so that’s good news for Indy and for anyone counting on him. It’s a whirlwind tracking all these camp injuries, but it’s crucial info as we inch closer to opening kick-off.
Rookie QB Struggles and Impressive Backs
Over in the Thursday night preseason matchups, we saw rookie QB Fernando Mendoza get his second taste of NFL action, and it was rough. Playing for the Texans against the Raiders, he completed only eight of 15 passes for 86 yards and threw a pick-six in Texans territory. Yikes! Kirk Cousins is still the likely starter for Week 1, and Mendoza’s performance makes it clear the No. 1 pick might not be ready to jump in right away. Some guys just need more time, you know?
But it wasn’t all bad news for Houston fans. Running back Mike Washington Jr. continues to impress, showing some real flashes of talent out there. It’s always great to see a guy seize his opportunity when the starters are getting limited snaps.
This Week 2 of preseason is a big one. We’re seeing more starters, more competitive play, and unfortunately, more injuries like Higgins’ and LaPorta’s that could shake up the entire start of the season. Keep an eye on LaPorta’s hip status because his availability for Week 1 could completely change the Lions’ offensive plans. The next few weeks are gonna be wild as teams finalize their rosters and get ready for the real deal.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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