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Texans Promote CB Jawhar Jordan to Emergency RB2 Amid Injury Crisis

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, December 14th 2025 at 18:34 GMT by Sporting News

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Texans Turn to Draft‑Choice CB Jawhar Jordan as Emergency RB2 in the Wake of an Injury Crisis

The Houston Texans’ 2024 season has taken a sudden, unexpected turn. A chain of injuries that has already sidelined several key offensive contributors has forced the team’s front office to look beyond its conventional depth chart. In a move that has left fans both surprised and intrigued, the Texans promoted rookie cornerback Jawhar Jordan—selected in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft—to the role of an “emergency running back 2” (RB2). The decision, which came just weeks after the Texans announced that veteran running back Jalen Richard would miss the remainder of the season, illustrates the brutal reality of a crowded and injury‑prone roster.

The Injury Wave

Houston’s offense has struggled to find a stable running back since Jalen Richard’s hamstring injury in Week 5. Richard, who had been the team’s workhorse, was expected to be a feature back, but a series of hamstring and Achilles issues forced the Texans into a dilemma. The team’s secondary injury list—particularly the loss of running back James Conner, who was declared inactive due to a calf strain—left the coaching staff with very limited options.

In an official injury report posted the day after Week 6, the Texans listed seven players on the injured reserve list, two of whom were offensive players: Richard (running back) and Conner (running back). The Texans also had a string of questionable players that could potentially miss further time. With no true back on the field, the Texans had to scramble for a viable replacement.

Who Is Jawhar Jordan?

Jawhar Jordan is a 23‑year‑old defensive back from Auburn. He was drafted by the Texans in the third round, 95th overall, of the 2024 NFL Draft. During training camp, Jordan showcased versatility, with his coaches praising his athleticism and agility. Though primarily a defensive back, Jordan’s work ethic and speed made him a candidate for a “position conversion” scenario—an approach that has precedent in the NFL for teams dealing with unexpected depth issues.

After being signed to the Texans’ active roster on August 29, Jordan’s primary responsibilities on the field have been on special teams and defensive coverage. However, the head coach, DeMeco Ryans, has described Jordan as a “team player” who can take on any role the team needs. The emergency RB2 role was created to give the Texans a quick, low‑cost solution to keep the backfield functioning while keeping the roster balanced.

How the Role Is Structured

“Emergency RB2” is not a formal NFL designation. It is a term the Texans use to describe a player who is primarily a backup running back but is not officially listed as such on the roster. In Jordan’s case, the role will likely involve him taking handoffs on short-yardage and goal‑line situations, as well as participating in goal‑line packages. He is expected to focus on ball security, blocking, and maintaining a low risk of injury as he adapts to a new position.

The Texans’ offensive coordinator, Mark Carrier, was quoted in a local sports media outlet: “We know Jordan’s talent and speed. We’ve given him the playbook on how to line up and take the handoffs. We’ll keep the usage low‑risk at first, but he’s a very athletic kid.” Carrier’s statement underscores that Jordan’s role will be primarily a short‑term, emergency measure, with no expectation that he will become a long‑term solution at running back.

Reactions from the Coaching Staff

When asked about the decision, DeMeco Ryans praised Jordan’s work ethic. “Jawhar has always been a hard worker, and when the situation demanded it, we turned to him. He has the ability to take on different responsibilities and still maintain a professional attitude.” Ryans emphasized that the Texans value the adaptability of their roster, especially in the current NFL environment where injuries can quickly derail a team’s season.

Additionally, defensive coordinator Chris Stokes expressed admiration for Jordan’s versatility. “He’s always been a player who can do what the team needs. That’s a quality we need, and we’re glad to have him on the roster.”

Impact on the Team and Future Prospects

The immediate impact of Jordan’s promotion is clear: the Texans have a temporary solution to keep their offensive line and playbook functioning. However, it also raises concerns about the long‑term viability of the backfield. With Jalen Richard out for the season and James Conner’s injury status uncertain, the Texans might be forced to bring in a free‑agent back or promote another player from the practice squad in the weeks ahead.

From a strategic perspective, the Texans are playing a “survival game.” The organization’s front office is reportedly exploring options for a veteran running back on a short‑term contract, with the hope of providing a better fit than an unproven defensive back on a rushed conversion.

Looking ahead, the Texans’ head coach has hinted at possible future opportunities for Jordan if he can successfully learn the nuances of the backfield. “If he wants to stay on the roster and help the team, we can explore his development in that role,” Ryans added.

Key Takeaways

1. Injury Crisis: The Texans’ running back group has been decimated by injuries, leaving a void that needed immediate filling.

2. Jordan’s Conversion: Jawhar Jordan, a rookie defensive back, was promoted to an “emergency RB2” role to keep the offense functional.

3. Coaching Support: Both head coach DeMeco Ryans and offensive coordinator Mark Carrier praised Jordan’s work ethic and adaptability.

4. Short‑Term Solution: Jordan’s usage will be low‑risk, short-yardage, and goal‑line packages; the role is not intended as a long‑term backfield replacement.

5. Future Outlook: The Texans remain open to bringing in veteran running backs and may reassess Jordan’s role based on his performance and the team's injury landscape.

In the high‑stakes, high‑pressure world of the NFL, roster flexibility is often the difference between a competitive season and a season of disappointment. The Texans’ decision to elevate Jawhar Jordan to the role of emergency RB2 illustrates the organization’s willingness to adapt to the challenges presented by an injury-riddled season. Whether this bold move will pay off remains to be seen, but the Texans have demonstrated that they are prepared to go to unconventional lengths to keep their offensive unit operational—an approach that could set a precedent for other teams facing similar adversity.