The Houston Texans continue to receive frustrating injury news after losing Joe Mixon early in camp. Mixon's status has been in question for the entire offseason with an odd foot injury. After believing the back would be ready for camp and the regular season, the team has changed course. Mixon is not expected to miss a large chunk of time. However, this wasn't the only bad news Houston fans have been handed with rookie Kyonte Hamilton taken off the field on Wednesday in the back of the cart in an air cast. It is the worst possible indication that the injury is going to keep the rookie out for an extended time.
A piece of what makes this setback so frustrating for the rookie is the fact that he was already facing an uphill battle to make the roster. Selected in the final round of the 2025 draft, Hamilton was viewed as a possible depth option competing with more proven players to earn a spot. Any injury that knocks him out into the regular season leaves his standing with the organization in question. This isn't a top selection who has the security of a solid contract and team expectations.
Texans Rookie Kyonte Hamilton Carted Off the Field
Left leg immobilized in air cast for rookie defensive lineman Kyonte Hamilton as #Texans practice resumed with former Rutgers @RFootball standout carted off and taken inside for testing @KPRC2 https://t.co/ZKNTfc6q0F
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) July 30, 2025
Hamilton needed a strong camp and preseason to cement his role with the Texans. With this in mind, it is not only a frustrating update for Houston, but a huge blow to a young player's attempt to win a role at the next level. While this is a piece of the reality of the business, it doesn't make it any easier as Houston's camp continues to bear bad news. Teammates gathering around the lineman suggest that they also understood the severity of the injury.
This, along with the air cast, is telling of just how serious the injury appears to be. Details are yet to emerge, but it would be surprising if Hamilton is able to return this summer. For the Texans, the defensive line remains a strong point built around two star edge rushers and incredible size in the interior.
If the injury is as serious as it appears, it will likely buy Hamilton time on the roster to rehab and continue to adjust to the next level. However, patience will be far thinner whenever the rookie is able to make an eventual return.