Houston Chronicle: The Texans are optimistic that rookie running
back Steve Slaton is ready to carry an even heavier load Monday.
He is nursing a sore chest from when he landed on a ball a few
weeks ago, but Slaton said the rest in practice last week and the
extended break this week have helped him heal quickly. Slaton
said he is ready for more responsibility this week with Ahman Green on injured reserve. Ryan Moats will back up Slaton and Cecil Sapp will play halfback as well. "Naturally, we don't want
(Slaton) to play as many plays as he did against Minnesota, but
he's very capable of playing 45, 50 plays a game," coach Gary
Kubiak said. "He's shown that. He's having a heck of a year. He's
right there battling with some of these other guys around the
league. " So, we're just excited to see him continue to move
forward."

Houston Chronicle: Texans RB Steve Slaton, who has chest and rib
injuries, will start the Monday night game against Jacksonville.
Ryan Moats, who is nursing a sore ankle, will be the backup. Cecil Sapp can play running back as well as fullback. If the Texans sign
another back, it could be Darius Walker, who is still available
since they waived him the last time.