TEXANS OFFENSIVE TACKLE SMITH SIDELINED WITH FOOT INJURY

Houston Texans offensive tackle Braden Smith was carted off the field during a joint practice with the Carolina Panthers on Wednesday and has been diagnosed with a plantar fascia injury. According to reports, Smith is expected to miss "a few weeks" but the injury is not considered long-term. Head coach DeMeco Ryans said at the time that he had no immediate update on Smith's condition.

Smith signed a two-year deal with the Texans during the offseason after spending eight seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, where he started 105 games. The injury comes as Smith and Trent Brown have competed for the starting right tackle position. Brown is a former Pro Bowler who did not participate fully in training camp but has been receiving additional practice repetitions in recent weeks.

With Smith's absence, Brown is expected to start at right tackle in Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills on 13 September. Ryans praised Brown's performance, stating that he "moves people with ease" and describing him as "one of the better guys with his size and his ability". The Texans appear prepared to move forward with Brown at the position while Smith recovers from the foot injury.