The Houston Texans can look forward to getting Wade Woodaz back in short order.
Woodaz suffered a broken thumb during the Texans’ loss to the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 2 of the preseason, and he underwent surgery to repair it.
“#Texans rookie linebacker Wade Woodaz underwent successful surgery today to repair a broken thumb, per a league source,” KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson reported on X on August 24. “Expectation is to be out this entire week before return to play plan with a cast to prepare for season-opener vs. #Bills.”
The Texans selected Woodaz, 22, in the fourth-round with the 123rd pick in the 2026 draft. He showed well in the Texans’ loss to the Raiders, intercepting No. 1 ovrall pick Fernando Mendoza and returning it for a touchdown.
Texans Get Promising News on Wade Woodaz
GettyWade Woodaz is on the mend after surgery on this thumb.
Woodaz was spotted wearing a cast on his thumb ahead of his surgery as he watched Texans practice on Saturday.
The projected quick turnaround is encouraging. The Texans have battled injuries at linebacker, and they have most likely lost one–E.J. Speed–for the season. They parted ways with intended replacment Sione Takitaki not long after bringing him in.
The Texans also cut Marte Mapu, who they traded for this offseason, amid an injury.
Fortunately for the Texans, Woodaz is the latest sign they may be turning a corner regarding injuries, at least at linebacker.
Texans LB Room Getting Healthier
GettyJake Hansen is trending in the right direction.
“#Texans linebacker Jake Hansen (ankle) not practicing, but making progress and has been running for a while again after early camp injury,” Wilson reported in a separate post on X earlier in the day on Monday.
Woodaz remains on track to open the season as the Texans’ starting SAM linebacker.
That was Speed’s role before he tore his quad during the Texans’ offseason program, which began their rash of LB injuries.
The Texans linebacker corps is led by Pro Bowler Azeez Al-Shaair and Henry To’oTo’o. They also rely heavily on their nickel look, which has Jalen Pitre in the nickelback spot and just the two LBs on the field.
Texans Get Encouraging Update on Injured Rookie Standout