Houston (illness) is active for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: Houston missed some practice time this week due to illness but was never thought to be in significant danger of missing Sunday's game. He'll be expected to see his usual role along the defensive front.

Houston (illness) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: Houston tended to an illness for the second day in a row Thursday, missing practice yet again. On a positive note, head coach Andy Reid told Terez A. Paylor of The Kansas City Star that Houston should "be able to go" this weekend. With a 1 p.m. ET kickoff Sunday, Houston's status will be known with plenty of time to search for another pass-rush option in the event he doesn't suit up.

Houston did not practice Thursday due to an illness, Terez A. Paylor of The Kansas City Star reports.

Analysis: There doesn't appear to be much concern surrounding the bug Houston is fighting, as the team is likely taking a cautious approach with its linebacker. Should Houston be able to return to the practice field Friday, he'll likely be good to go for Sunday's contest with the Dolphins.

Houston had five tackles (three solo) and a sack in Sunday's 26-15 win over the Raiders.

Analysis: The sack brings his season total to 9.5, and was a bounce-back performance from Week 13 when Houston failed to record a single tackle. A matchup against Philip Rivers and the surging Chargers awaits Saturday.

Houston recorded four tackles (three solo) and one sack during Week 12 against the Bills.

Analysis: Houston's sack pace has slowed after a hot start to the season, but he returned to the column after a couple of weeks without one. The 28-year-old outside linebacker remains a nearly every-down player, playing 90 percent of the team's defensive snaps Sunday. He should have a decent opportunity to add to that total next week against a Jets offensive line that has allowed 35 sacks so far this season.

Houston (knee) is active for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: Houston's absence from Friday's practice caused worries about his health, but it likely was just a maintenance day. Although he's averaging under five tackles per game, Houston has racked up 7.5 sacks through eight games. He'll have a tough task pressuring Dak Prescott, who has been sacked on just 3.8 percent of his dropbacks, ranking seventh in the league.

Houston (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys.

Analysis: Houston was held out of practice Friday, but there's a legitimate chance his absence was merely maintenance-related. He was also listed questionable prior to the Week 8 game against the Broncos and went on to play and match his season high with two sacks.

Houston recorded two sacks in Monday night's victory over the Broncos.

Analysis: Houston upped his sack total on the season to 7.5 with his pair on Monday. All-in-all, he logged six tackles (five) solo on the day. He will look to carry that momentum into the Chiefs' Week 9 game versus the Cowboys.

Houston (knee) is will play Monday against the Broncos, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official website reports.

Analysis: Although Houston was unable to participate in Saturday's practice, the team remained hopeful he would be able to play Monday. He has validated their optimism, and will presumably take on a full workload assuming he avoids any setbacks.

Houston (knee) did not practice Saturday but is still expected to play in Monday's contest, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Despite his absence from practice, all reports indicate he's trending towards playing Monday. Without Houston, Kansas City lacks a strong pass rush which could help set things in motion for Denver's offense. Assuming he avoids any setbacks, however, Houston should be ready for Monday's contest.

Houston has a knee injury and was a limited participant at the Chiefs practice Friday, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: Houston was limited Thursday as well, but isn't expected to be in danger of missing Monday's game, unless it is otherwise indicated by the team. The 28-year-old has been on the injury report for a variety of issues this season, but has yet to miss a game.

Houston (calf) won't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Steelers, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: Houston was limited in practice Friday and sitting out early in the week. The Chiefs are likely just being cautious with their star outside linebacker, who looks ready to go for Sunday's matchup with the Steelers.

Houston (calf) didn't practice Wednesday and is questionable ahead of Sunday's matchup with the Steelers.

Analysis: After posting 1.5 sacks against the Texans in Week 5, Houston surprisingly appeared on the injury report Wednesday. It's unclear when this injury was sustained, so his availability for Week 6 is up in the air as well. Regardless, he'll likely need a full practice in order to suit up Sunday.

Houston recorded three tackles (two solo) and 1.5 sacks Sunday against the Texans.

Analysis: Houston was held without a sack for the first time of the season in Week 4, but he got back to his normal self against the Texans. His numbers haven't been explosive this year, with just 22 tackles (18 solo) through five games, but the fact that he's added 5.5 sacks, three pass breakups and a touchdown off a fumble recovery has helped spring him into fantasy relevance.

Houston collected three tackles (all solo) during Monday's game against the Redskins.

Analysis: Houston remains a dominant pass-rusher for the Chiefs, despite not contributing with a sack. He did find pay dirt on Washington's last play of the night, however, picking up an errant lateral and taking it to the house with no time on the clock. He should have a good opportunity to get back on the board in the sacks column next week against a Houston offensive line tied for the most allowed in the league.

Houston collected a sack, 1.5 tackles for loss, two passes defensed and six tackles (four solo) Sunday against the Chargers.

Analysis: Houston has gotten to the quarterback at least once in each of the team's first three contests and played fine despite dealing with an illness during the week. After a couple of disappointing campaigns due to injury, the 28-year-old outside linebacker appears to be back to his old self.

Houston (illness) is active for Sunday's game against the Chargers, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: Houston has been a monster on the field this season, logging 151 defensive snaps, 10 tackles (nine solo) and three sacks. The 28-year-old linebacker will be given the duty of breaking through the weak Chargers' offensive line and putting pressure on Philip Rivers.

Houston (illness) is expected to play against the Chargers on Sunday.

Analysis: Houston first appeared on the injury report Thursday and did not practice, but was a full participant Friday. The veteran linebacker avoided the questionable tag as well, so the Chiefs are apparently fairly confident he'll be ready for Sunday.

Houston is sick and will not practice Thursday, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: This is a new ailment for Houston, as he was not present on Wednesday's injury report. Stay tuned for more information as the weekend approaches, but at this point, Houston is still expected to be available for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

Houston had no problem picking up where he left off after recording two sacks in the season opener, as the veteran notched five solo tackles, a pass defended, and another sack in Sunday's victory over the Eagles.

Analysis: Houston has been hot to start the season and shows no signs of slowing down. He recorded a near-record 22 sacks during the 2014 campaign, but has been held back by injuries the last two years. However, he is healthy now and the Chiefs are giving him every opportunity to succeed. The 28-year-old was only on the sideline for two snaps Sunday, as he saw 70 (97%) overall. He will look to carry his momentum into San Diego for the team's Week 3 clash with the Chargers.

Houston collected five tackles (four solo), including two sacks in the season-opener against the Patriots.

Analysis: After a near-record 22 sacks during the 2014 campaign, Houston has been nagged by injuries the last two years and collected just 11.5 sacks over 16 games over that span as a result. He looked healthy during the opener, which bodes well for his prospects this season. The 28-year-old will attempt to follow Week 1 with another strong showing in Week 2 against the Eagles.

Houston capped off his 2016 season Sunday with six tackles (five solo) in a divisional-round loss to the Steelers.

Analysis: Houston missed the team's final two regular-season games due to injury, but was deemed healthy enough to give it a go in the team's first playoff game. While he did record six tackles, the 28-year-old pass rusher was unable to get to Ben Roethlisberger in the contest and finishes his injury-shortened 2016 campaign with just four sacks over six games (including the playoffs). He remains under contract with the Chiefs for another four years, but has played just 16 games combined in the last two…read more

Houston (knee) was a full participant in practice Thursday.

Analysis: The veteran linebacker will take the field Sunday against the Steelers after missing the final two games of the regular season. He may see his reps monitored more than usual in the return. If that is the case, expect Dee Ford to see a slight uptick in defensive snaps.

According to head coach Andy Reid, Houston (knee) is ready to return to practice ahead of Sunday's divisional round game against the Steelers.

Analysis: Houston missed Kansas City's final two regular season games due to swelling in his surgically repaired right knee, which prevented him from making his season debut until Week 11. While the Chiefs are unfortunately accustomed to playing without Houston this season, his four sacks in five games played evidences the dynamic threat he still poses, so the team will certainly welcome him back with open arms to start practice this week. How Houston's knee responds to his return remains to be seen,…read more

According to head coach Andy Reid, Houston (knee) will be available for the divisional round matchup next weekend, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Houston has been absent from the Chiefs' last two games due to swelling in his surgically repaired right knee. However, the veteran should be available in some capacity for the team's playoff push, bolstering an already impressive defense. Look for updates to come during practice next week when the team releases their injury reports.

Houston (knee) is dealing with swelling in his surgically-repaired right knee, The Kansas City Star reports.

Analysis: Head coach Andy Reid declined to elaborate upon Houston's status further than stating the linebacker is "day-to-day" with inflammation in his right knee. While Houston isn't a lock to miss an extended period of time, Reid also failed to shoot down such a notion, making it appear possible that the Chiefs could be without their star edge rusher for postseason play.

Houston (knee) was ruled out of Sunday's game in San Diego, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: Houston's surgically-repaired knee made it through five games before giving way to last week's DNP, his first since making his season debut in Week 11. Although Houston will now sit out his second straight contest, the Chiefs' pass rush responsibilities remain in good hands considering Dee Ford is the next man up.

Houston (knee) did not practice Wednesday, B.J. Kissel of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Houston played through the knee aliment for five games before sitting out of Sunday's win over the Broncos. With the Chiefs' playoff berth secured, they may decided to rest the veteran linebacker for Week 17, but look for more updates to come throughout the week.

Houston (knee) felt a bit better Sunday than he did Saturday and coach Andy Reid said they are taking things "day-by-day" heading into Week 17.

Analysis: Houston has played in five straight games after previously dealing with a knee injury, but the issue flared up and held him out Sunday. The Chiefs are locked into a playoff berth heading into Week 17, so it's quite possible the veteran pass-rusher will be held out again as the team prepares for the postseason, but more on the situation should reveal itself as the week progresses.

Houston (knee) is inactive Sunday against the Broncos.

Analysis: Houston's surgically-repaired knee experienced some swelling this week, so much so the veteran was held out of practice every day. Tamba Hali and Dee Ford project to start at outside linebacker in his absence.

Houston (knee) is not expected to play Sunday against the Broncos, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.

Analysis: Houston's IDP owners are thus advised to line up a replacement for the linebacker in their Week 16 lineups. Houston's next chance to suit up will arrive on Jan. 1, for the Chiefs' Week 17 tilt against the Chargers.

Houston is dealing with swelling in his knee and will not practice Wednesday, BJ Kissel of Chiefs.com reports.

Analysis: Coach Andy Reid didn't seem overly concerned about the swelling in Houston's knee, so it seems that Houston's absence from Wednesday's practice is merely precautionary. The 27-year-old will be looking to play in his sixth consecutive game Sunday against Denver after missing most of the season recovering from an injury to the same knee that is now swollen.

Houston (illness) is active for Sunday's Week 15 tilt with the Titans, BJ Kissel of Chiefs.com reports.

Analysis: The illness resulted in Houston missing practice Thursday and limited him during Friday's session, but it appears he's feeling better after resting Saturday. While it will be less than ideal for Houston to play in frigid temperatures in Kansas City during Sunday's contests, it's not expected that he'll face any limitations with his snap count.

Houston (illness) is questionable for Sunday's matchup with Tennessee.

Analysis: Houston missed practice on Thursday and was limited on Wednesday and Friday due to illness. If he's ruled out look for Dee Ford to start in his place opposite Tamba Hali.

Houston recorded six tackles (four solo) along with a half-sack in Thursday's game against the Raiders.

Analysis: While Houston was on a snap count in his first week back from injury and didn't impact the box score much, he's now totaled 4.5 sacks over the past three contests. Next week comes against a Titans team that focuses on the run game and has allowed just 18 sacks this season, so there may be limited opportunities for Houston to impact the contest.

Houston (shoulder) will play Sunday against the Falcons, BJ Kissel of Chiefs.com reports.

Analysis: Houston's availability for the Chiefs' defense is a big deal, and he'll look to add to the 12 tackles, three sacks and one forced fumble he's recorded through two games played this season.

Houston (shoulder) is considered questionable for Sunday's game against the Falcons.

Analysis: Houston's shoulder injury is a bit of a mystery, having practiced in full on Wednesday before missing Thursday's session, and returning Friday on a limited basis. He's coming off a three-sack performance, so hopefully for the Chiefs he'll be able to suit up on Sunday. If he's unable to play, however, Dee Ford (hamstring) and Frank Zombo figure to see expanded roles at outside linebacker.

Houston did not practice Thursday due to a shoulder injury.

Analysis: The injury seemingly appeared overnight as the linebacker was a full participant in practice Wednesday. The team has yet to release information about the injury, but look for more updates to come after Friday's practice session. In the meantime, expect Dee Ford (hamstring) and Dadi Nicolas to fill in for the veteran linebacker.

Houston forced a fumble, notched three sacks and collected 10 tackles Sunday against the Broncos.

Analysis: After playing limited snaps in his return to the lineup last week, Houston put the league on notice that he's still a game changer. His forced fumble came on a sack, and the ball was recovered for a safety that helped the Chiefs pull off the upset of the Broncos. On the off-chance that he's still on the waiver wire, do whatever is possible to add him, as he could be a league winner the rest of the way.

While Houston may have been limited in Sunday's game against Tampa Bay, he was still on the field for 55 of 77 defensive snaps. He turned that into just two tackles (both solo), though.

Analysis: Coming off an ACL tear, it's tough to know how effective Houston will be initially. It will likely take some time to get his legs back under him, but the fact that he was out there for a good chunk of plays suggests it may not be long before he's ready to play the entire game. The Chiefs now have some depth at outside linebacker, but Dee Ford suffered a hamstring injury Sunday that could leave them a bit shorthanded again heading into next week's contest against Denver.

Houston (knee) is listed as active for Sunday's tilt against the Buccaneers.

Analysis: Houston will officially make his season debut after spending the first portion of his 2016 campaign on the PUP list as he recovered from a torn ACL. He's projected to start immediately at outside linebacker opposite Tamba Hali.

Houston (knee) is expected to play Sunday against the Buccaneers, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Analysis: Houston has yet to play this season due to the injury, and his return is a huge boost to the Chiefs' defense. He is expected to start right away, which would limit the snaps of Dee Ford and Frank Zombo.

Houston (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers, although coach Andy Reid said Friday he thinks "there's a good chance" he'll be able to play, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Houston continues to trend towards a Week 11 return after spending an extended period of time on the Chiefs' PUP list. He figures to get the start at outisde linebacker if he's able to play, with Dee Ford and Frank Zombo serving as backups.

According to coach Andy Reid, Houston (knee) is "pretty close" to making his return, BJ Kissel of Chiefs.com reports.

Analysis: Houston was activated from Kansas City's PUP list last week but remained sidelined for Sunday's win over the Panthers. However, with another week to get his knee right following February's ACL surgery, Houston is seemingly edging toward a Week 11 return, making his situation one to track in the coming days.

Houston (knee) will not play Sunday against the Panthers, The Kansas City Star reports.

Analysis: Houston was just activated from the Chiefs' PUP list this week, but head coach Andy Reid evidently didn't see enough in practice this week to allow him to play. In his continued absence, Tamba Hali and Dee Ford will remain the starters at outside linebacker.

Head coach Andy Reid said he's "leaning away" from playing Houston this week against the Panthers, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: Houston, just activated from the PUP list Wednesday, was predictably limited in every practice this week and appears doubtful to play. If he ultimately doesn't suit up, Dee Ford and Tamba Hali will continue to see extensive playing time.

Houston (knee) was activated from the Chiefs' PUP list on Wednesday.

Analysis: Although Houston is now on the active roster, he remains limited in practice and may not be immediately ready to play. However, the release of Sam Barrington suggests otherwise. Expect his status to be confirmed prior to kickoff.

Houston (knee) will be activated from the Chiefs' PUP list this week, even though his status for Sunday's game against the Panthers remains uncertain, ESPN's Adam Teicher reports.

Analysis: Houston has until Wednesday to be activated for the first time since his February ACL surgery, and although that upcoming roster move will result in him being on Kansas City's 53-man roster this weekend, it remains unclear if he'll be healthy enough to play yet. As a result, his situation bears further monitoring as this week unfolds.

Houston (knee) is not expected to play this Sunday against the Jaguars, according to coach Andy Reid, The Kansas City Star's Terez Paylor reports.

Analysis: Houston has until a week from this Wednesday to be activated from the Chiefs' PUP list, and although he returned to practice recently, he's still a long shot to play in Week 9, according to Reid. While Houston's situation bears monitoring in the next week, it appears Kansas City will be without its star pass rusher for at least another game.

Houston (knee) won't play Sunday against the Colts, as he remains on the Chiefs' PUP list, ESPN's Adam Teicher reports.

Analysis: Houston returned to practice last week following his February ACL surgery and still has two weeks to be activated from Kansas City's PUP list. With the Chiefs understandably playing it safe with their star pass rusher, Houston won't be available for this Sunday's game, leaving the team's Week 8 options at outside linebacker unchanged.

Head coach Andy Reid doesn't expect Houston (knee) to play in Sunday's game against the Colts, Terez A. Paylor of the Kansas City Star reports.

Analysis: Houston returned to practice last week, but the Chiefs want to take things slow with their superstar pass-rusher. A return in Week 9 or 10 seems more likely than an appearance this upcoming Sunday.

Houston (knee) will return to practice on Wednesday, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Houston's eventual return appears to be on the horizon as he resumed practicing, while he remains on the PUP list at this point. He'll play a key role for the Chiefs' defense opposite Tamba Hali at outside linebacker.

Houston (knee) has been cleared for football activities by the Chiefs, Adam Teicher of ESPN reports.

Analysis: The earliest that Houston can come off the PUP is Monday, and he will then have a three-week window before he has to officially be made active. Houston, who was eyeing a return to the field in November, looks to be on time in his recovery, and his return should have a big impact on the Chiefs' defense at the midway point of the season.

Houston (knee) is planned to return to the field in November, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Analysis: Houston's February ACL surgery coincided with a 6-to-12 month recovery timetable, causing him to land on the Chiefs' PUP list to begin this season. That designation will require Houston to miss at least the first six weeks of this season, but his absence could extend into November, according to Schefter. Should that prove true, Houston wouldn't be back until Week 9 at the earliest, potentially leaving a Chiefs defense that managed just one sack Sunday against the Chargers without its top pass…read more

Houston (knee) was moved to the regular-season PUP list Tuesday, ruling him out for the first six weeks of the year, NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports.

Analysis: Houston was always a long shot to be ready early in the season, as his February surgery came with a recovery timeline of 6-12 months. The Chiefs do still hope to have him available by mid-year, with Houston capable of making a huge impact even if he has to be eased back into action.

The Chiefs placed Houston (knee) on the PUP list Saturday, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Analysis: After the discovery that one of his ACLs wasn't behaving properly, Houston underwent knee surgery in February and was handed a recovery timeline of 6-to-12 months. The Chiefs are confident that the pass rusher will put on the pads at some point during the 2016 season, but landing on the PUP list sheds little light on whether that's a distinct possibility.

Houston (knee) won't be ready for the start of next month's training camp, ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The Chiefs still do not have a concrete timetable outlined for Houston, who underwent ACL surgery in February, though GM John Dorsey maintains that the linebacker will play for the team at some point this coming season. With that in mind, Dorsey noted of Houston, "I don't know how much he's going to do in camp. But, listen, he's where he needs to be right now and he's a hard worker. He's bound and determined to get back. We'll just see how it works out. There is no timetable. It's just when…read more

Houston (knee) will reportedly be at Chiefs' mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, although he isn't likely to practice, Terez Paylor of the Kansas City Star reports.

Analysis: Houston is still recovering from ACL surgery that took place back in February. He was given a recovery timetable of 6-12 months but the has assured that he'll play in the 2016 season. While it is highly unlikely he'll take part in any drills this week, his presence at minicamp is a step in the right direction.

Houston (knee) will play in the 2016-17 season according to GM John Dorsey, Terez A. Paylor of The Kansas City Star reports.

Analysis: Houston went through ACL surgery back in February and was given a recovery timetable ranging from 6-12 months. The linebacker did not tear his ACL, but instead it was revealed that his ACL was not function properly. The 27-year-old missed the final five games of the regular season and saw limited action during the playoffs. Dorsey did not confirm a timetable for Houston's return or if he would be ready in time for the regular-season opener, but more information will arise as the Chiefs begin…read more

Justin Houston: Out for 6-12 Months

Houston (knee) was given a recovery timetable of 6-12 months after having ACL surgery in February, the Kansas City Star reports.

Analysis: Although the ligament wasn't torn, a scope on Houston's knee revealed that his ACL was not functioning properly. This could actually be trickier than a clean tear, as evidenced by the wide range given for his recovery period. Initially diagnosed with a PCL injury in late November, the 27-year-old Houston missed the final five games of the regular season and was very limited in Kansas City's two playoff contests. He's now highly uncertain to be ready for Week 1, which could allow 2014…read more

Houston finished the 2015 regular season with 7.5 sacks, 25 tackles and two interceptions,.

Analysis: While Houston was unable to reach double-digits in sacks for the first time in the past four seasons, much of that can be attributed to a knee injury that kept him out of five contests. Finishing just the first year of a six-year, $101 million contract, Houston will once again serve among the Chiefs' linebacking corps in 2016, and should be a candidate to reach double-digit sacks once again.

Houston (knee) is listed as active Saturday at New England, BJ Kissel of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: Absent from the final five games of the regular season due to a hyperextended right knee, Houston was a shell of himself in the wild-card round, notching three tackles (two solo) against the Texans. His activity level during the week doesn't improve his stock much -- limited showings Wednesday and Thursday, followed by a DNP on Friday -- but the pass rusher will be out there opposite Tamba Hali (knee/thumb).

Houston (knee) is listed as questionable for Saturday's playoff game against the Patriots.

Analysis: Houston missed the final five regular season games due to a hyperextended knee, and although he returned to make three tackles (two solo) in last weekend's playoff win over the Texans, Houston's status remains on the fence for Saturday's upcoming kickoff. The Chiefs' star pass-rusher would likely don a knee brace once again if he plays Saturday, but with teammate Tamba Hali (thumb) also questionable, Kansas City's outside linebacking tandem is certainly banged-up.

Houston (knee) is active for Saturday's wild-card game in Houston, BJ Kissell of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Analysis: Houston used the final five games of the season to rehab a hyperextended right knee, but full practices dominated his week, implying that he's nearing 100 percent. No matter, James Palmer of NFL Network suggested on Saturday morning that Houston could be limited in the playoff opener, which would reduce his potential pass-rushing opportunities.

Houston (knee) will play in Saturday's game against the Texans, but could be limited, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Houston has been a full participant in practice for the last week, so any concerns of limitations shouldn't be too severe. Even if he isn't quite 100 percent, he should still be a strong tool against a Texans offensive line that ranks in the middle of the pack in sacks allowed.

Houston (knee) is listed as probable for Saturday's playoff tilt against the Texans.

Analysis: Houston is expected to make his first appearance since Nov. 29, when a hyperextended left knee put him on the shelf. Coming off a full week of practice, Houston represents a big boost to the Chiefs' defensive front.

Houston (knee) practiced fully Wednesday.

Analysis: Houston's full practice participation supports the notion put forth by the linebacker earlier this week that he'll take the field Saturday against the Texans. Houston -- who is bouncing back from a hyperextended left knee -- last played on Nov. 29. Prior to that, he recorded 30 tackles, 7.5 sacks and two picks in 11 games.

Justin Houston: Practicing Tuesday

Houston (knee) will practice Tuesday, ESPN's Adam Teicher reports.

Analysis: Houston hasn't played since Week 12 while recovering from a hyperextended left knee. However, he made it back to practice as a limited participant Friday, setting him up for a return in the opening round of the playoffs. Houston seems more likely than not to suit up against the Texans, but it's entirely possible he'll be limited in terms of snap count and/or effectiveness. His primary matchup would likely be against RT Derek Newton, who Houston unsurprisingly got the best of back in Week 1.

Houston (knee) is considered day-to-day as the Chiefs begin their postseason preparations this week, NFL Network's Albert Breer reports.

Analysis: Houston hasn't played since late November, but is apparently edging toward a return ahead of Saturday's playoff game against the Texans. Considering the Chiefs' injuries to fellow outside linebackers Dee Ford (concussion) and Tamba Hali (thumb), the timing of Houston's potential return appears opportune.

Houston (knee) is inactive Sunday against the Raiders.

Analysis: Houston hasn't played since injuring his knee on November 29, but he's getting closer to being ready for the Chiefs first playoff game next week. In his absence, Frank Zombo will see extensive work at left outside linebacker.

Houston (knee) is not expected to play Sunday against the Raiders, according to NFL Network's Albert Breer.

Analysis: Houston returned to practice Friday after missing nearly a month, but he was seen wearing a heavy brace. Given the lack of practice, he'll miss the regular-season finale.

Houston (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Raiders after returning to a limited practice Friday.

Analysis: Per the Kansas City Star, Houston, who has missed the Chiefs' last four games with a hyperextended left knee, was sporting a brace on the knee in his first practice in a month. Still, the questionable designation indicates that he has at least a shot to play this weekend in the team's regular season finale.

Houston (knee) is expected to miss the rest of the regular season, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: If the preceding comes to pass, Houston will rehab his hyperextended knee over the next few weeks in anticipation of a return in the postseason. In the meantime, the Chiefs will vie with the Jets and Steelers, among others, for a wild-card berth.

Houston (knee) has been ruled out of Sunday's game against the Ravens, Blair Kerkhoff of The Kansas City Star reports.

Analysis: Houston is now set to miss his third consecutive game due to a hyperextended knee. Considering he wasn't able to practice all week, this designation doesn't come as much of a surprise, but it's promising to know that the Chiefs still believe the star linebacker could return this season. However, he'll have to practice in some capacity before he can return to the field, so IDP owners should check in on his status moving forward.

Houston is still considered day-to-day after Dr. James Andrews confirmed the linebacker is suffering from a hyperextended knee, Terez Paylor of The Kansas City Star reports.

Analysis: There were some rumors that Houston may miss the rest of the season after injuring his knee during a Week 12 game against the Bills, but upon visiting Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion it appears as if the pass rushing linebacker could return to the field sometime this season. Still, the Chiefs have yet to announce a timetable on his return, which would likely indicate the 26-year-old will not play this week against the Chargers.

Houston (knee) did not practice Wednesday.

Analysis: With whispers that Houston might potentially miss the rest of the regular season, the linebacker is clearly not an IDP lineup consideration in Week 15.

Houston (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

Analysis: Houston will now miss a second consecutive contest after injuring his MCL in a Week 12 contest against the Bills. Frank Zombo, who recorded five tackles (four solo) and two sacks in Week 13, in part due to Houston's absence, will likely get an opportunity to start at outside linebacker.

Houston (knee) did not practice Wednesday, Adam Teicher reports.

Analysis: Houston, who suffered a sprained MCL during Week 12's contest against the Bills, remained sidelined for Sunday's game against the Raiders with the minor injury. The Chiefs will likely need to see Houston in practice at some point this week before declaring him active for their Week 14 contest against the Chargers.

Houston (knee) has been ruled out of Sunday's game against the Raiders, Adam Teicher reports.

Analysis: Houston went down with a sprained MCL last weekend, and although the injury isn't overly serious, he'll still be sidelined for Sunday's divisional contest against the Raiders. With Houston out, teammate Frank Zombo figures to get more playing time at outside linebacker.

Houston (knee) may be able to play Sunday against the Raiders, BJ Kissel of Chiefs.com reports.

Analysis: Houston injured his knee during last Sunday's game against the Bills and initial reports suggested the star linebacker could be week-to-week with a sprained PCL. Head coach Andy Reid seemed to dismiss that notion saying, "He's made big improvements over the past two days," and refused to rule Houston out for this Sunday's game against the Raiders. It seems unlikely that the 26-year-old would be able to suit up this week due to the nature of the injury, but the 2014 sack leader might have a…read more

Houston (knee) is week-to-week with a sprained PCL, NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports.

Analysis: Although a sprained PCL isn't overly serious, Houston will likely still miss at least one game. He already missed most of Sunday's win over the Bills, allowing Frank Zombo to get extensive playing time at left outside linebacker. The drop-off would be significant for the Kansas City defense, even if it's only for a game or two.

Justin Houston: Tests reveal minor PCL sprain

Houston (knee) is believed to have suffered a minor injury, as initial tests revealed a PCL sprain, NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports.

Analysis: Houston was forced out of Sunday's win over Buffalo with a knee injury, but seems to have avoided serious damage. While tests are reportedly ongoing, Houston thus far has only been diagnosed with a sprained PCL, which is considered minor. The All Pro linebacker's status will be updated as more information is made available, but early indications appear relatively positive.

Houston (knee) is questionable to return Sunday against the Bills.

Analysis: Houston's absence is a huge blow to a Chiefs defense that has been on fire lately. While he misses time, Frank Zombo is likely to take over at left outside linebacker.