Watson won't be active for TNF despite Taylor's injury

Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson won't be active for Thursday's game against the Carolina Panthers despite starter Tyrod Taylor suffering a hamstring injury in Week 2, head coach David Culley said Monday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Taylor, who's considered day-to-day, reportedly won't be able to play against the Panthers. Third-round rookie Davis Mills will likely start the prime-time matchup after stepping in during Sunday's loss to the Cleveland Browns following Taylor's injury.

Watson has been a healthy scratch for the first two weeks of the season amid police and NFL investigations into allegations of sexual assault and inappropriate behavior. Twenty-two women filed lawsuits against Watson, and 10 women have also filed criminal complaints against him.

Watson requested a trade during the offseason. The Texans reportedly want a six-piece package of players and draft picks in return for their franchise player.

Mills threw for 102 yards and one touchdown against one interception Sunday. Houston will likely promote Jeff Driskel from the practice squad to back up the rookie.