The Houston Texans have officially announced that JJ Watt will be placed on the injured reserve list today, meaning he’ll be out for a minimum of eight games, although multiple reports suggest his season is likely over. 

According to ESPN’s Ed Werder, a source close to the situation said:

“I do believe that he will miss the season, but with the new rule this year, if he were to be ready in December, he could come off IR. Long shot.”

Watt underwent back surgery in July to repair a herniated disc and missed training camp as well as Houston’s four preseason games, but was miraculously ready for the start of the season. Knowing this, and because the guy is a freak, it wouldn’t be a total shock if he were able to get back on the field however improbably it may seem.

He has never missed a regular season game, having played in 86 consecutive games since being drafted by the Texans in 2011. The Texans have reportedly resigned Antonio Smith to take Watt’s roster spot.

If JJ Watt is hurt I guarantee you nobody will work harder to let you know he’s working hard to get back than JJ Watt.

— Tom Fornelli (@TomFornelli) September 28, 2016

JJ Watt has back soreness from years of carrying the Texans and will likely be out for the season.

— NFL Retweet (@NFLRT) September 28, 2016