Azeez Al-Shaair has made strides in his recovery and is nearing a return to the field ahead of the Houston Texans‘ Week 7 matchup this weekend. This presents concern for New York Giants quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who will be the starter against Houston.

Al-Shaair is going through the eighth season of his NFL career, his third with the Texans. He shines as one of the best linebackers in the league, helping Houston be in the mix for playoff appearances.

Al-Shaair played in the team's first five games of the 2026 campaign. However, he suffered a minor knee injury against the Jacksonville Jaguars as he is on the team's injury report. He was absent from Houston's practice session on Wednesday before improving to limited activity during Thursday's session. It indicates that the injury might not prevent him from missing out on Week 7.

Houston #Texans Thursday Injury Report for Week 7 vs. the New York Giants: pic.twitter.com/Rhv92ZQGcp

— Houston Texans PR (@TexansPR) October 22, 2026

What lies ahead for Azeez Al-Shaair, Texans

Azeez Al-Shaair plays a major role in the Texans' defense. He helped them shine as an elite defense, especially ranking among the best in the 2025 season. Despite a slow start in 2026, Houston's knack for causing trouble to opponents will remain a signature trait with Al-Shaair in the fold.

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Al-Shaair continue to be productive as an elite tackler in the league. Five games into the season, he has racked up 49 tackles and two pass deflections. In 2025, he recorded 103 tackles and two interceptions en route to earning a place on the Pro Bowl roster.

Houston has a 2-4 record this season, sitting at third place in the AFC South Division standings. They are above the Tennessee Titans while trailing the Indianapolis Colts and the Jacksonville Jaguars. In terms of the conference standings, they are 13th place. They lead over the Titans and the Miami Dolphins while being under the Colts and the New York Jets.

The Texans will continue preparations for their upcoming matchup, being at home. They host the New York Giants in Week 7 as kickoff commences on Oct. 25 at 1 p.m. ET.