Braden Smith avoids long-term injury ahead of Texans-Bills matchup

Braden Smith, the new starting right tackle for the Texans, suffered a plantar fascia injury during a joint practice with the Panthers this week. Sources indicate that while he may miss a few weeks, the injury is not considered long-term, allowing the possibility of his return for the Texans' Week 1 game against the Bills. Smith, signed to a two-year, $20 million contract in the offseason, has extensive NFL experience but has faced injuries in his career. If he cannot play, Trent Brown or Blake Fisher could step in at right tackle.

• 12:34 PMYahoo Sports — Texans blocker avoids long-term injury ahead of Bills game