Houston Texans rookie Kayden McDonald was listed on the team's injury report after missing a recent practice session. The player is dealing with an ankle issue, which has raised questions about his availability for the upcoming Week 1 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
McDonald was selected with the 36th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Texans moved up in the draft to acquire the former Ohio State Buckeyes star, who helped his college team secure the 2024 College Football Playoffs national championship. Although he is not currently designated as a starter on the team's unofficial depth chart, his reduced participation is notable as the season approaches.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans has previously praised McDonald's development during his first offseason with the franchise. Jonathan M. Alexander of The Houston Chronicle noted that McDonald was the only player absent from the viewing portion of the practice session. This absence stands out given the positive feedback the rookie received earlier in the summer.
Will Anderson Jr. was the other player who did not participate in the session. However, his absence was categorized as a rest day rather than a physical ailment. This distinction leaves McDonald as the primary player on the injury report dealing with a specific physical issue.
