Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson will miss the rest of his rookie season after suffering a torn ACL in Thursday’s practice. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network Insider reported that Watson sustained the injury on a non-contact play. Watson then underwent an MRI where the extent of the injury was confirmed. Rapoport said Watson needs eight to nine months of rehabilitation, but he will be back in time for the start of the 2018 season. The injury ended Watson’s remarkable rookie season with the Texans. In six starts this season, Watson completed 126 of 204 passes for 1,699 yards and 19 touchdowns, with eight interceptions.
Watson is currently tied for the NFL lead in passing touchdowns with 19. With Watson out, former starter Tom Savage will take over playmaking duties for the Texans (3-4), starting with Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts. According to Rapoport, the Texans plan to sign former Oakland Raiders quarterback Matt McGloin as a backup. Savage started one game for the Texans before Watson took over the role.
Colts place Luck on IR
Earlier, the Indianapolis Colts placed quarterback Andrew Luck on injured reserve, putting an end to his season even without throwing a single pass. The Colts were hoping that Luck could play this season after undergoing surgery on his throwing shoulder in January. However, he experienced a setback in his recovery, forcing the team to place him on IR.
“I wish I was better and 100 percent this season, but that's not the case," Luck told the team's official website, per NFL.com. Luck promised to be a better quarterback, teammate, person, and player when he returns next season. According to Colts general manager Chris Ballard, the 28-year-old Luck will not undergo a second operation and he will just rest and rehabilitate his throwing shoulder for it to heal properly.
Team denies Luck’s injury is career-ending
Ballard also rejected reports that Luck’s injury is a career-ending one, saying the Colts will rehabilitate their starting quarterback until he’s fully healthy for next season. “We think for the long-term interest of Andrew, this is the best course of action,” said Ballard, adding that no doctor diagnosed Luck’s injury as career-ending.
Ballard said the Colts are doing everything they can for Luck to have a long career as their starting quarterback. The Colts’ No. 1 overall pick in 2012, Luck has thrown for 19,078 yards and 132 touchdowns with 68 picks.
