For selfish reasons, Houston wide receiver David Anderson might see Andre Johnson's aching ankle as presenting a fine opportunity for himself.
But Anderson knows what Johnson means to the Texans and he also knows what Johnson's made of, so he's going to assume it will be business as usual in Oakland on Sunday.
"He's the most athletic and toughest guy I've ever met," Anderson said, "so if he has a chance to play, he's going to play."
And that's the sentiment Johnson expressed.
"I'm just trying to do everything I can to be on the field," he said. "I'll get over to the stadium early. I'm preparing to play."
With a caveat.
"The biggest thing is making sure that ankle feels well. I'm not going to do anything to set myself back," he said. "We still have a long season ahead. I don't want to re-injure it again. It got twisted up pretty good in the Dallas game (after suffering the sprain at Washington).
"I was able to go out and run around a little again today and catch a few passes. When I came back in Monday, I was much sorer than I am now."
Johnson admitted he would prefer to get his regular reps during the week because "I always like to practice."
The Raiders present a special challenge for Johnson because of the presence in their secondary of Nnamdi Asomugha. Even when healthy, Johnson has struggled against Asomugha, catching just five passes in three meetings.
It sounds like even Johnson himself knows that if his ankle isn't right, it doesn't make much sense to play this weekend and make it worse. He remains a game-time decision, but owners should be ready with alternatives and know that Johnson might have an off week even if he does play. Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones look like they'll be catching most of Matt Schaub's passes, and running back Arian Foster will be Houston's best fantasy player.
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