Mike Adams

Adams has missed two straight contests while nursing a concussion, but he now appears ready to retake the field. His return will provide a notable boost to Houston's depth in the secondary for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

Adams was active for Week 11's loss to the Ravens but didn't play after suffering a concussion during warmups. The 38-year-old safety didn't make enough progress in the league's concussion protocol on the short week, so he'll watch a second straight game from the sidelines. Justin Reid (concussion) is also ruled out, so Tashaun Gipson (back) -- he's listed as questionable -- A.J. Moore and Jahleel Addae will round out the team's safety corps.

Adams absence hurts the Texans' secondary depth, but the team still has four healthy safeties. The 38-year-old will look to make a quick turnaround for Thursday's matchup against the Colts.

The Texans are struggling defensively, as they've allowed 259 passing yards per game (ranked 20th) and 114 rushing yards per game (16th) through four games. Adams, who turned 38 years old in March, provides a veteran presence to complement safeties Justin Reid and Tashaun Gipson. He was a starter for the Panthers last year, registering 75 tackles, six pass breakups and three interceptions. It's unclear how much he'll play for the Texans, but it looks like he could fill in as a nickel safety.