Texans Noah Brown Questionable To Return vs. Browns With Injury

Houston Texans Receiver Noah Brown missed last week's victory over the Colts with a back injury, and has now exited vs. the Cleveland Browns.

Houston Texans receiver Noah Brown suffered a shoulder injury during the first quarter of the AFC wild-card round matchup against the Cleveland Browns. He is questionable to return. 

During the opening series, quarterback C.J. Stroud tried to connect with Brown on a third-and-9 play to secure the first down. Brown collided with a pair of Cleveland defenders, leading to a Cameron Johnston punt. 

Brown remained on the ground for several moments before eventually returning to the sidelines. He entered the medical tent for further evaluation.

Entering the week, Brown was limited with a back injury suffered in Week 17's win over the Tennessee Titans. He was inactive in Saturday's playoff-clinching victory over the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. 

Houston Texans wide receiver Noah Brown (85) makes a catch against the Houston Texans tight end Dalton Schultz (86) in the second half at NRG Stadium / Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Brown returned to practice in limited fashion on Wednesday and was listed as questionable on Thursday's injury report. He is fourth on the team in receiving yards this season with 567, to go along with 33 catches.

Should Brown be ruled out, the Texans must turn to Xavier Hutchinson and John Metchie III as the No. 3 option. Houston could run a double tight end look with Dalton Schultz and Brevin Jordan opposite Nico Collins and Robert Woods. 

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Collins posted a career-high 195 yards and a touchdown in last week's win over the Colts. Woods, who is fifth on the team in receiving yards with 426, was inactive last week and returned to practice on Wednesday. 

The Texans will receive the ball to begin the second half. Houston currently trails Cleveland 7-3 following a 1-yard touchdown run by Kareem Hunt.