The Texans have played five different players at running back this season. According to interim head coach Wade Phillips, the team plans to bring in another back this week with the latest injuries to Deji Karim and Dennis Johnson. Karim will be placed on season-ending injured reserve and Johnson's return against Tennessee is questionable.
"Dennis Johnson, who started this game as a rookie, he got hurt in the game and he's got an injured hip that may or may not keep him out," Phillips said. "Deji Karim also got hurt in the game, broke his collar bone; I think they call it clavicle now. But anyway he's out and won't return."
Karim is the third running back this season to be placed on injured reserve, joining Arian Foster and Ben Tate. Fullback Brad Smelley, who played just two games, is also done for the season.
"Brad Smelley also got hurt in the game, tore a calf and so he's out also for the last ball game," Phillips said.
Johnson was named the starter against Denver following Tate's season-ending injury in Week 15. The undrafted rookie appeared in 8 games this season, rushing for 183 yards on 49 carries.
With Johnson questionable and Karim out, Johnathan Grimes could start the final game of 2013 at Tennessee. Grimes, signed to the active roster last week, saw action against Denver and had five carries for 23 yards.
