Brian Hoyer Injury: Updates on Texans QB's Concussion, Neck, Wrist and Return

Houston Texans quarterback Brian Hoyer suffered his second concussion of the season, injured his wrist and strained his neck against the New England Patriots in Week 14. However, he's ready to return to the field.

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O'Brien Names Hoyer Starter

Wednesday, Dec. 30

“He’s out of the concussion protocol,” head coach Bill O’Brien said, per Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle. “He’s been cleared by the specialists. He’ll start for us on Sunday.”

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Hoyer Comments on Return

Wednesday, Dec. 30

"To be preparing to play, it's exciting," Hoyer said. "I feel great. No reservations. I'm ready to go play."

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Hoyer's Return Bolsters Texans Offense

Hoyer suffered a concussion in the Texans' 10-6 Week 10 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, but the head injury didn't keep Houston's signal-caller sidelined long.

Although he faded in and out of the starting lineup early in the season when O'Brien gave Ryan Mallett a chance to seize the job, Hoyer stayed ready and ultimately reclaimed the gig.

Hoyer's return gives the Texans a better chance to win in the playoffs, despite being an inconsistent quarterback more times than not. It's unclear how much of an improvement he is over Brandon Weeden, who has performed admirably in replacing Hoyer the last two weeks. Weeden threw for three touchdowns and was not picked off once in wins over the Colts and Titans.

That said, Houston has been decimated by injuries on the offensive side this season. Getting Hoyer back in the lineup will at least give the Texans some continuity.