Texans tight end Garrett Graham has been ruled out of Monday night's game against the Patriots because of a concussion. He did not travel with the team to New England on Sunday.
Graham was listed as questionable on Saturday's game status report. Texans coach Gary Kubiak said Saturday afternoon that Graham had one more test to pass under the league's concussion protocol to be cleared to play. Graham practiced every day this week on a limited basis after suffering a concussion last Sunday at Tennessee.
Graham's absence may have significant implications for the Texans' offense. The Texans employ tight end Owen Daniels, Graham and fullback/tight end James Casey in three tight-end sets and creative formations, a key to their offensive versatility. They now have only two healthy tight ends in Daniels and Casey.
When Daniels missed the Texans' game at Chicago in Week 11, Ryan Harris played extensively as a third offensive tackle. Harris is starting this week because right tackle Derek Newton is out with a knee injury. Tackle Andrew Gardner and/or rookie guard Brandon Brooks, who has played some at tackle, could get an increase in playing time this week. Fullback Tyler Clutts could be used on offense more to allow Casey to play more tight end.
Graham has 25 catches for 243 yard and three touchdowns this season. The third-year pro out of Wisconsin has played in all 12 games with six starts.
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