Houston Texans coach Gary Kubiak wants to see wide receiver Andre Johnson practice this week before determining whether or not the five-time Pro Bowl selection can return from his latest hamstring injury to play in Sunday's game against the Tennessee Titans.
While he's taking a wait-and-see approach on Johnson's status, Kubiak believes the team's star receiver is finally ready to return as the Texans tune up for their first playoff appearance.
"Our expectations are for him to be back on the field on Wednesday," Kubiak told reporters Monday, according to the team.
Kubiak said last week that Johnson was "very close" to returning to practice, while at the same time ruling him out of his third straight game because of a strained left hamstring.
It has been an injury-plagued season for Johnson, who was sidelined for six consecutive games earlier in the year with a right hamstring injury that required surgery. He returned in Week 12 and played in two games before straining his left hamstring.
The Texans (10-5) already have clinched the AFC South title, so the goal in mind is to get Johnson up to speed before January football begins.
"I'm just concerned about Andre's health and getting him ready to play for two weeks from now, so that's my biggest concern," said Kubiak.
Kubiak added that linebacker Connor Barwin and tight end Owen Daniels (knee) were held out Monday but could have practiced. He doesn't expect right guard Mike Brisiel (ankle) to play.
