Tytus Howard Returns To Texans Practice Ahead Of Season Opener vs. Ravens

Could right tackle Tytus Howard return in time for the Houston Texans' season opener against the Ravens?

HOUSTON — Houston Texans Tytus Howard took a significant step toward returning to the lineup Monday afternoon, taking part in the team’s first practice ahead of their season opener against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.

Howard underwent hand surgery on Aug. 7 after sustaining the injury during a Saturday night practice. He was projected to be out for four to six weeks. But ahead of Week 1, coach DeMeco Ryans said Howard is "day-to-day", while the team will "see" about his availability. 

If Howard is not available at M&T Bank Stadium, swing tackle George Fant will likely start in his absence.

"Injuries happen all the time in football, and you have to be ready to adjust," Ryans said. "It is never the same 53-man roster. There are always things you have to be ready to change. It's just something we have to deal with."

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Howard is the third longest-tenured player on the roster. The Texans drafted him with the No. 23 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Four years later, Howard signed a three-year, $56 million extension on July 26. 

According to Pro Football Focus, Howard has allowed an average of 2.2 sacks per year with a pass-blocking grade of 69.0.

Although Howard participated fully, he returned to practice with his wounded left hand heavily wrapped at the Houston Methodist Training Center.

"I’ve been paid, now I’ve got to go out there and get Pro Bowl and All-Pro [honors]," Howard said. "If I’m getting that, that means I’m only making the team better, man. That’s what it’s all about."