Jonathan Greenard has not seen the playing field since he departed Week 4’s loss to the Los Angeles Chargers with a calf injury.
The Houston Texans have had to roll with other defensive linemen to make up for the loss of their former 2020 third-round defensive end.
According to coach Lovie Smith, who met with reporters Wednesday, even though Greenard has played in just four games, they will still be able to use him effectively when he returns from injured reserve.
“We’ll always find a spot for a good defensive lineman,” said Smith. “It’s not like when you’re the starter — our number eight lineman has probably gotten over 30 plays every game, so we’ll find a way to get him into the mix once he’s ready to go.”
The Texans activated the 21-day practice window for Greenard. Houston will have that entire time to make a decision on whether or not Greenard is able to play, and thus place him on the 53-man roster.
“We’re not necessarily saying that (he will play in Week 14),” Smith explained. “He has started the process. Today was the first day he has actually practiced with us.”
The Texans theoretically could place Greenard on the active roster before the 21 days are up.
Greenard’s workload was light on Wednesday.
“Wasn’t a whole lot of hitting and things like that, a little lighter practice today,” Smith said.
