Texans cornerback Gareon Conley is unlikely to return to the field this year, according to head coach Romeo Crennel (via Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle). Houston initially had higher hopes for Conley back in September when they first placed him on injured reserve.
“He’s got an injury that he’s working through and he’s had it evaluated. It’s not where it needs to be,” Crennel said.
Conley underwent arthroscopic ankle surgery earlier this year, a minor procedure that typically cleans up lingering issue. Unfortunately, he’s experienced complications in his recovery. Conley has been going through the rehab process and trying new treatment options, but his ankle hasn’t responded well to any of it.
The Texans turned down Conley’s fifth-year option, bypassing a $10.244M placeholder that would have been guaranteed for injury only. In theory, that should have positioned the cornerback for a tremendous platform opportunity. Instead, he’s now facing the prospect of limping into the open market after making just $1.892M in base pay this year.
The former Raiders first-round pick quietly impressed as Johnathan Joseph‘s replacement last year. He started in six of his eight games for the Texans, compiling 27 tackles and 11 passes defended. He also started both of Houston’s playoff games, collecting 11 tackles and one sack.
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