Texans tight end Owen Daniels will be a game-time decision on Sunday after practicing on a limited basis on Friday.
Daniels, who has a back injury, did not practice on Wednesday and Thursday.
"He was very limited today," Texans coach Gary Kubiak said. "He did some of the individual stuff today early in practice, took a couple reps. Still very sore. We've got a little extra time because we play Sunday night, so we'll continue to give him every oppotunity go get there. I know it's very important to him, but yet he's got a way to go.
"He's a game-time decision, but he does have some progress to make if he's gonna be there Sunday."
Nose tackle Shaun Cody (ribs) and running back Ben Tate (hamstring) have been ruled out of Sunday's game. Cody and Tate did not practice at all this week. Earl Mitchell will start at nose tackle. Rookie defensive end Jared Crick and second-year nose tackle Terrell McClain also will be active.
If Daniels does not play, starting fullback James Casey and backup tight end Garrett Graham would take his place. Fullback Tyler Clutts, a former Bear, would have an increased role on offense.
"The bottom line here is James goes from a 30-35 player to possibly a 60-play player in this game," Kubiak said. "But James is ready to do that. He's taken advantage of his opportunities. He's very smart, does a lot of things for me. I'm excited about his opportunity to do more for the team. He's had a good week of practice.
Clutts has played primarily on special teams through the first eight games. He played for the Bears last season, serving as the lead blocker for Chicago running back Matt Forte.
"You're going to see him," Kubiak said. "He's going to play special teams, but obviously, something's gotta give there. James is gonna have to have a break, Garrett's gotta have a break. You're talking about three players basically have to handle about five spots in what we do offensively, so you're gonna see Clutts be a part of this game."
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