Andre Johnson Injury: How Will Texans Respond If WR Misses Major Time?

According to John Clayton, Andre Johnson has left the game due to a hamstring injury. His absence is going to have a major impact on the Texans' offensive attack. The entire Texans organization and fanbase will be holding their breath, hoping this isn't a long-term injury. The report is that it was a non-contact injury.

Houston just got Arian Foster back in the lineup, lost his backup Ben Tate to a groin injury and now are facing an even more devastating injury.  This Texans receiving corps cannot handle an Andre Johnson loss. After Johnson, the Texans' top receiving options include Jacoby Jones and Kevin Walter.

Jones and Walter are nice complementary pieces, but neither will threaten a defense. The Texans will need to search the free agent or trade market.

The loss of Johnson will put more pressure on Arian Foster. Foster's return gives the Texans a potent running attack. He figures to be the focal point if Johnson misses significant time.

However, opposing defenses will no doubt key on the running attack. Without Johnson, defenses will be able to put more men in the box. Many defensive coordinators will feel comfortable locking up in man coverage.

Foster will not be the only Texan receiving more pressure. Quarterback Matt Schaub will now need to find a way to execute the offense without his top target. He will be counted on to spread the football and make others around him better.

The entire Texans offense could expect to see more aggressive defenses. Without Johnson's playmaking ability, defenses will be able to blitz more often. Safeties will not be asked to play over the top, allowing them to play near the line of scrimmage.

Johnson's production and playmaking ability is key to a Texans team hoping to make a playoff run.  This injury could impact the entire AFC.

Jon Dove is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report, covering the NFL and NFL draft. Check him out on Twitter @Jon_Dove42.