Dominique

Barber

A core special teamer, Barber notched three tackles in six games. He has not been a regular contributor in the Texans secondary since 2009.

The reserve safety and special teamer was carted to the locker room midway through the fourth quarter. It’s possible he’s suffered a season-ending injury. His status should be updated at HC Gary Kubiak’s Monday press conference.

He’s currently behind Nick Ferguson on the depth chart, but Ferguson is 34 and couldn’t keep the job last year. Barber should beat him out in August.

Coach Gary Kubiak wouldn’t call it permanent, but it most likely is. Incumbent Nick Ferguson lacks Barber’s run-stopping and big-play ability. Ideally, the 34-year-old Ferguson will be a third safety and spot starter in case of injury.

Barber is on track to be a nice IDP sleeper behind a fairly leaky Texans front seven. Marion’s brother is a big hitter with a nose for the football.

Bernard Pollard, who just signed, may be in line for some action. John Busing has already overtaken Dominique Barber at strong safety. But it’s not the pass defense that has been the issue for the Texans, as they’re ranked a mediocre 17th. Their anemic run defense is giving up 204.7 yards per game.

Barber is done for the day. John Busing will likely fill in the rest of the way.