(SportsRadio 610) - Texans veteran safety Jimmie Ward did not practice Wednesday due to a hip injury and head coach DeMeco Ryans said his playing status is considered day to day.
Ward is one of the Texans' key free agent signings, expected to pair with second-year safety Jalen Pitre in Houston's secondary. Ward spent nine seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, including all of DeMeco Ryans' years as an assistant there, affording him the most familiarity with the coach's defensive system.
The Texans agreed to a two-year, $13 million contract with Ward back in March.
When asked about Ward on Wednesday, Ryans said he's confident in the depth at safety, calling it one of the strongest units on the team.
The Texans have Eric Murray, M.J. Stewart and Grayland Arnold who can provide depth at safety if Ward is unable to play.
Also on the Texans' injury report Wednesday are linebacker Blake Cashman and wide receiver John Metchie III (both not practicing with hamstring injuries). Linebacker Christian Harris (shoulder) and running back Dare Ogunbowale (hamstring) were limited at Wednesday's practice.
Houston begins the 2023 season Sunday on the road against the Baltimore Ravens.