Texans lose starting name before Chargers clash

As the NFL season reaches a vital stretch, the Houston Texans and Los Angeles Chargers have released their inactive lists for Saturday’s Week 17 showdown at SoFi Stadium, with several notable absences that could shape the outcome of the contest.

For the Texans, the most significant development comes on the offensive line, where both of the team’s starting tackles will be watching from the sidelines. Aireontae Ersery, the rookie left tackle, is officially ruled out after undergoing surgery to repair a broken thumb, ending his hopes of playing this weekend.

On the opposite side, veteran Trent Brown will also be unavailable due to lingering ankle and knee issues, leaving head coach DeMeco Ryans to reshuffle his roster against a Chargers team that have been relentless this season.

Houston’s inactive list also includes wide receiver Braxton Berrios, backup quarterback Graham Mertz, cornerback Alijah Huzzie, defensive end Solomon Byrd, and linebacker Jamal Hill.

On the Chargers’ side, Los Angeles will be without several players who have been dealing with injuries throughout the campaign. Running back Kimani Vidal, who left last week’s win over the Dallas Cowboys with a neck injury, is inactive, and gives rookie back Omarion Hampton an increased role in the Chargers’ lineup.

Also sidelined are wide receiver Derius Davis (ankle), cornerback Benjamin St-Juste (shoulder), safety RJ Mickens (shoulder), offensive lineman Jamaree Salyer (hamstring), outside linebacker Kyle Kennard, and tight end Tyler Conklin.

The Chargers’ list reflects genuine injury concerns for a team that currently holds an 11-4 record.

The game will take place on Saturday, December 27, with kickoff scheduled for 4:30 PM ET at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The matchup will be covered live on AS USA by our very own expert, Dane.

Related stories

NFL

Garrett aiming for ‘special’ record against Rodgers

NFL

T.J. Watt injury update ahead of Week 17

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.