Two plays into the second half of Sunday’s thriller between the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs, promising rookie right Tytus Howard went down with a left knee injury. His backup, Roderick Johnson, filled in nicely, not allowing sacks and, most importantly, helping Houston secure a 31-24 win.
Howard suffered a partially torn MCL, which should sideline him for 2-6 weeks. Until then, Johnson is the starting right tackle. Though a backup, the third-year tackle is more than ready
When asked, on Monday, how he felt about stepping in on Sunday, Johnson said he was “confident” in his abilities to keep the run-game going and Deshaun Watson unscathed. He did not allow a sack, nor did he draw any penalties or warrant complaints in the run-blocking department.
“I just made sure there was no drop-off from when Tytus [Howard] left, and I got in. That’s what we did to win the game.”
Johnson started in Week 2, against the Jacksonville Jaguars. In doing so, he allowed one sack, per Pro Football Focus, but held his own. Since then, the Florida State product has played as a jumbo-package tackle, playing 137 snaps on the season.
“All work is welcome,” said Johnson. “All work is good work.”
Johnson’s next work assignment? Keep Watson clean and the run-game efficient against a feisty Indianapolis Colts front-seven on Sunday, at Lucas Oil Field.
