NFL injuries, AFC South: Texans ailing

A rough season in Houston got a little bit worse on Sunday. Houston lost its 12th straight game and could now be without several key players due to injury. The Texans have injuries throughout the depth chart. That includes in the backfield where they may be forced to make changes at quarterback and running back.

Quarterback Case Keenum underwent an MRI on his injured thumb and his status for Week 16 is in doubt. Ben Tate continues to be plagued by injured ribs and underwent a CAT scan. DeVier Posey, Antonio Smith and Johnathan Joseph all underwent MRIs after suffering injuries in the Week 15 game against the Colts. Bryan Braman, Justin Tuggle and Darryl Sharpton also suffered injuries on Sunday.

Donald Brown suffered a stinger on Sunday and head coach Chuck Pagano said the running back would be day-to-day this week. Jeff Linkenbach, Daniel Adongo and Sergio Brown are also day-to-day. Joe Reitz suffered a concussion and will have to go through NFL protocol before he's cleared to return. Pagano said Stanley Havili, LaVon Brazill, Samson Satele and Greg Toler might practice on Wednesday.

Maurice Jones-Drew did not play in Week 15, but Gus Bradley said the running back looks better and the team will have a better idea of his status when the Jaguars return to practice on Wednesday. Jonathan Cyprien also has a chance to return this week after sitting out due to a thigh injury. Wide receiver Cecil Shorts has been plagued by a groin injury and said shutting down for the rest of the season would probably be the "best thing for it." Guard Mike Brewster sustained an ankle injury on Sunday and was placed on injured reserve.

Delanie Walker returned after missing time with a concussion and played well against the Arizona Cardinals. He finished with eight catches for 53 yards and a touchdown. Linebacker Zach Brown didn't play after leaving the game in the first quarter, but his absence was performance, and not injury, related.