Since word of Houston Texans tight end Owen Daniels’ injury came out, it was clear that he could be required to miss time. It was initially reported as an injured fibula, but the team has since confirmed that the tight end suffered a non-displaced fracture in his leg. Houston confirmed yesterday that the injury has caused them to place Daniels on their short-term Injured Reserve.

The designation means Daniels can’t rejoin the Texans for at least eight weeks. Initially, Houston believed the injury would sideline Daniels for three to six weeks. This number grew to four to eight, but that was before the fracture was known.

Daniels suffered his injury during Sunday’s loss to the San Francisco 49ers. The Texans don’t believe the injury will require surgery.

This is a big loss for the already-reeling Texans. Daniels was the team’s top tight end, and he ranked first in touchdowns and second in receptions behind only Andre Johnson. In his absence, the Texans will use Garrett Graham as their starter with Ryan Griffin sliding into their No. 2 position. Graham’s been good, but more will be asked of him now that Daniels is out.