Texans Elevate Chad Muma From Practice Squad
Houston activated the former Patriots linebacker from its practice squad, making him eligible for Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Football
The Houston Texans elevated linebacker Chad Muma from their practice squad on November 7, 2026, making him eligible to play in Week 9 against the Los Angeles Chargers. It is Muma's first game-day elevation since Houston signed him to its practice squad on October 7.
Why it matters
The elevation gives Houston additional linebacker depth for Sunday's game without a full roster commitment. It also gives Muma a chance to contribute after New England released him in August.
Muma, 27, was drafted No. 70 overall by Jacksonville in 2022 and appeared in three regular-season games and all four playoff contests for New England in 2025. He recorded three special-teams tackles during the postseason.
The players
Chad Muma
Muma is a 27-year-old linebacker who was drafted by Jacksonville and has also played for New England and Indianapolis.
Houston Texans
The Texans are an NFL franchise based in Houston that plays in the AFC South.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers are an NFL franchise based in Los Angeles that plays in the AFC West and are Houston's Week 9 opponent.
The details
Muma was released by New England during final roster cuts after preseason performances failed to earn him a spot, with the Patriots favoring veteran K.J. Britt and younger linebacker options. Houston then signed him to its practice squad, and the Texans elevated him for the Week 9 matchup against the Chargers.
Timeline
2022: Jacksonville selects Muma with the No. 70 overall pick in the NFL draft.
December 2025: New England acquires Muma from the Indianapolis Colts' practice squad.
August 30, 2026: New England releases Muma.
October 7, 2026: Houston signs Muma to its practice squad.
November 7, 2026: Houston elevates Muma for Week 9.
Season Trajectory
Houston's move reflects the depth management common across the NFL, where practice squad elevations let teams cover injuries and matchup needs during the season. For Muma, the elevation is a chance to earn a more regular role after New England's roster decisions left him without a spot.
Muma's eligibility for the Week 9 game means Texans fans and fantasy managers should watch the depth chart at linebacker on Sunday. Any snap count or special-teams role he earns will show how much Houston relies on him.
The takeaway
Practice squad elevations often reveal which depth players a team trusts in a given week. Muma's role in Week 9 will show whether his preseason and postseason work with New England translates to a larger job in Houston.
Further reading
For more on the team, see Houston Football coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Heavy.
