Report: Watt re-injures back, could miss season

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt has re-injured his back and is expected to be out for an extended period of time, possibly the season, sources have told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Watt will be placed on injured reserve Wednesday, reports ESPN's Adam Schefter, with the Texans now planning to sign free-agent defensive end Antonio Smith, who played five seasons for the team from 2009-13.

The Texans (2-1) are trying to learn more about the injury, which likely happened against the New England Patriots last Thursday night. Watt had surgery on his back in July and was expected to miss time, but has been active for all three of the Texans' games.

Watt has recorded 1.5 sacks so far this season, but has not looked like his usual dominant self.

The 27-year-old has never missed a game in his six-year career.