HOUSTON -- J.J. Watt has re-injured his back, according to a person familiar with his condition, and the Houston Texans expect the star defensive end to be sidelined until at least December, and possibly the entire season.
The person spoke to The Associated Press on Tuesday night on condition of anonymity because the team hasn't confirmed the injury.
Watt missed training camp and Houston's four preseason games after surgery in July to repair a herniated disk in his back. He started each of the team's three regular-season games and got hurt again Thursday against the Patriots.
It's unclear if the injury will require surgery, but the person familiar with his condition told the AP he could be placed on injured reserve as early as Wednesday.