Houston Texans rookie Wade Woodaz undergoes thumb surgery

Houston Texans rookie linebacker Wade Woodaz has undergone successful surgery to repair a broken thumb sustained during a preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Woodaz, a fourth-round pick, is expected to be out for the current week, with plans to return to play using a cast in preparation for the season opener against the Buffalo Bills.

The injury adds to a series of setbacks for the Texans' linebacker unit. E. J. Speed is expected to miss the season due to a quad injury, and Jake Hansen is currently working through an ankle injury. While Woodaz was considered a primary candidate for the LB3 role following a notable touchdown interception in the preseason, his injury leaves the position group thin heading into the regular season.