Texans-Cowboys preseason game canceled so players can return home
Thursday's preseason game between the Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys has been canceled.
On Monday, the game was moved to AT&T Stadium in Arlington from Houston due to weather caused by Hurricane Harvey.
The decision to cancel was due to players wanting to get back to Houston to be with their families and help relief efforts.
"The Houston Texans have made the decision to travel back to Houston after local authorities have now found a safe route for the team to drive home today," the Texans stated in a press release. "At this time, the priority for our organization is getting our players, coaches and staff back home to be reunited with their families, many of whom have been evacuated from their homes and are currently sheltered.
"The team feels it is imperative to get back home to help the Houston community recover from the devastation of Hurricane Harvey."
Proceeds from the contest were set to be donated to the United Way of Greater Houston Flood Relief Fund. Instead, Texans owner Bob McNair will make a donation equal to the money that would have been generated from the game, according to the Houston's Chronicle's Aaron Wilson.
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The Texans are still hopeful of hosting their season opener on Sept. 10.