Texans to turn to S Grayland Arnold if CB Tavierre Thomas doesn’t play against the Jaguars

Tavierre Thomas has carved out a role as one of the best nickel backs in the NFL. However, the Houston Texans may need to find an adequate replacement in Week 3 as the former Ferris State product missed Wednesday’s practice with a hand injury.

While Thomas missed the first of three practices for Week 3, the Texans still have to be prepared in case their starting nickel isn’t able to face the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday at TIAA Bank Field.

Coach DeMeco Ryans met with reporters at NRG Stadium and revealed how the Texans would approach the nickel should Thomas be unavailable.

“With Tavierre, with him and his injury, we’ll have Grayland [Arnold] step into his place and Grayland will be ready to go,” said Ryans.

Arnold has been a mainstay on special teams with 42 such snaps logged through the first two games. As Houston has dealt with injuries to safeties Jalen Pitre, Jimmie Ward, and Eric Murray, Arnold has played 20 snaps on defense through the first two games.

The 5-10, 190-pound defensive back has been with the Texans since Week 2, 2021, when he signed with the practice squad. Arnold has recorded four combined tackles through 14 career games with Houston.