Texans right offensive tackle Charlie Heck is being activated this week from the reserve-COVID-19 list, according to coach David Culley.
Heck tested positive last week and was replaced in the starting lineup by veteran former New England Patriots starting right tackle Marcus Cannon for a 37-21 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Heck will start practicing Thursday, per Culley, who was noncommittal on how he'll handle the snaps at right tackle. Culley emphasized that the team has to evaluate Heck's stamina and conditioning before determining any potential playing time.
As a vaccinated player, Heck had to pass two consecutive PCR tests and be asymptomatic to be cleared to play.
Culley indicated that wide receiver Anthony Miller is physically ready to play after dislocating his shoulder during the preseason and being held out of the Jacksonville game as new slot Danny Amendola caught all five passes thrown to him with one touchdown. However, Culley said that he hasn't determined yet how playing time will be divided and if Miller will be active yet this week.
The Texans signed veteran defensive tackle Jaleel Johnson off the New Orleans Saints' practice squad after cutting him during the preseason. Johnson returned to Houston on Tuesday night to re-sign with the Texans after spending the offseason and preseason with the team.
"He knows exactly what we are all about," Culley said of Johnson. "When we cut him ,we knew we were letting go of a guy that would be in this league and be playing. We are very fortunate to get him back."
Aaron Wilson has covered the NFL for 20 years and has previously written for The Houston Chronicle and The Baltimore Sun. He’s on Twitter: @AaronWilson_NFL and Instagram: @aaronwilson7128