The Houston Texans are facing a critical offseason after their 2025 NFL Playoffs run ended abruptly with a divisional round loss to the New England Patriots. Central to their defense’s success last season was linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, who played through a thumb injury while delivering a career-best performance. As the team prepares for next year, Al-Shaair has shared his recovery status, giving Texans fans a hopeful outlook on his readiness.
Although Al-Shaair was not selected in the 2019 NFL Draft, he earned a roster spot with the San Francisco 49ers and began his career on special teams. Over time, he gained more defensive responsibilities, becoming a starter by 2021. After a difficult 2022 season with the 49ers, he joined the Tennessee Titans, recording a career-high 163 tackles in his single year there. This performance led to a significant three-year, $34 million contract with the Texans in free agency.
Despite missing six games in 2024, Al-Shaair rebounded strongly in 2025. The linebacker appeared in all 16 games, tallying 103 tackles, two interceptions, nine pass breakups, and a forced fumble. Those statistics earned him his first Pro Bowl appearance, enhancing his value as a defensive leader. He recently announced he underwent surgery to repair his injured thumb, an operation necessary to ensure he can maintain his role moving forward.
Successful thumb surgery for Texans Pro Bowl linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair,
Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston shared in a post on X.
Al-Shaair said at close of season he would need to get it repaired in offseason. Full recovery expected for offseason for hard-hitting team captain.
Preparing for 2026: Texans Aim to Strengthen Team Around Al-Shaair’s Defense
Given the timing of the surgery, Al-Shaair is expected to be fully recovered by the start of the 2026 season. His consistent impact on the field makes his health a priority for the Texans, who rely heavily on his defensive presence as they attempt to advance in the AFC South. Keeping their defensive cornerstone active and effective will be central to their strategy next year.
The Texans’ offseason focus also includes enhancing an offense that struggled to complement its strong defense during playoff competition. Protecting quarterback C.J. Stroud will be especially crucial, as well as adding additional offensive weapons to improve scoring opportunities. If Houston can successfully address these areas while fielding a dominant defense led by Al-Shaair, the team could emerge as a surprising contender in the upcoming season.
Successful thumb surgery for #Texans Pro Bowl linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair. Al-Shaair said at close of season he would need to get it repaired in offseason. Full recovery expected for offseason for hard-hitting team captain @KPRC2 pic.twitter.com/Yxa2p6F8aD
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) February 11, 2026
