The Houston Texans are bolstering their lineup ahead of Saturday’s highly anticipated matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs by signing former Alabama standout Irv Smith Jr. to the active roster. Smith, who had been contributing from the practice squad, now steps into a more pivotal role as the Texans gear up for a critical showdown at Arrowhead Stadium.
After playing in Houston’s last two games, Smith will no longer be a temporary addition on game day. Instead, he’s earned a permanent spot on the 53-man roster, a move the team announced Friday afternoon. His promotion comes at a crucial time for the Texans, who are looking to stay competitive in the playoff race as they face one of the AFC’s top contenders.
Smith’s involvement over the past two weeks hasn’t gone unnoticed. The former Crimson Tide tight end recorded 40 offensive snaps and contributed on special teams for nine plays during his brief stint as a practice-squad elevation. NFL teams are allowed to elevate two players from their practice squads for each game, but Smith’s performance made a compelling case for a longer-term role.
The opportunity opened up when tight end Teagan Quitoriano was sidelined with a knee injury and placed on injured reserve. With Cade Stover also missing his second consecutive game following an emergency appendectomy, the Texans found themselves thin at the tight end position – a void Smith is ready to fill.
To clear space on the active roster, Houston released wide receiver Steven Sims.
As Smith prepares to take the field on Saturday, his journey from Alabama to Houston’s practice squad and now to the active roster serves as a testament to his perseverance and ability to seize the moment. His presence could be a game-changer as the Texans seek to keep their offensive rhythm against the reigning Super Bowl champions.
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