J.J. Watt has never missed a game in his six seasons in the NFL with the Texans, but that will change this Sunday.

Watt was placed on injured reserve this week after re-injuring his back against the Patriots.

The three-time Defensive Player of the Year made a speedy recovery from surgery on a herniated disc in his back this offseason. But, after undergoing another procedure on Thursday, his recovery timetable is much longer.

There was some hope that Watt would return once eligible in Week 12, but the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport stated that it was doubtful. Now, it's confirmed.

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From the Texans' official Twitter account:

[Bill] O'Brien confirms J.J. Watt is officially out for the season.

The Texans are still 2-1 with a number of other talented players on the roster, but it will be a challenge emotionally to compete with the face of their franchise on the sideline. Let alone the fact that Watt's considered by many to be the best player in the NFL, when healthy.

The Texans aren't going to take any chances this time around. O'Brien was adamant earlier this week that Watt had passed all of the necessary tests before making his initial return in Week 1. But, after undergoing a second back surgery in just three months, caution has become a priority, for good reason.