It’s unclear whether he could come back deep into a Texans playoff run, but that doesn’t appear too likely anyway at the moment. Ward, who turns 34, is under contract for the 2025 season and will gain the Texans only $1.25 million in cap space to release next offseason. Ward had a 76.3 PFF coverage grade last year, and though he’s getting long in the tooth, he’s probably a good bet to retain a starting job next year.

He twisted his ankle under his body weight while being blocked by Travis Kelce and immediately hit the ground. Ward was then carted off the field. Myles Bryant replaced Ward. We’d be surprised if Ward returned based on how it looked on the field.

The Texans will also be without starting cornerback Kamari Lassiter (shoulder) as well. Patriots rookie QB Drake Maye’s day is made somewhat easier by the news, though he remains a volatile QB2.

He was injured towards the end of the second half. Eric Murray will step up into a starting role with Ward out. Ward missed seven games last year and hasn’t played as many as 16 games since 2021.