Green suffered a sprained knee in Sunday's 16-6 victory at Cleveland. After the doctors examined Green, they determined that the rehabilitation time could be three to five weeks. With five games remaining in the season, the Texans didn't want to wait on him to try to get healthy.

Darius Walker, who was waived on Oct. 26, was signed to the practice squad. He replaced linebacker Justin Roland, who was released.

The Texans still have injury problems at running back. Rookie Steve Slaton, who is playing with a bruised chest and ribs, will start the Monday night game against Jacksonville at Reliant Stadium.

Ryan Moats, who was signed to the practice squad on Oct. 7 and moved to the regular roster on Oct. 26, is the backup but is nursing an ankle injury.

Cecil Sapp, who was signed Sept. 30 to back up Vonta Leach at fullback, can play running back, too.

The decision to place Green, 31, on injured reserve ended a disappointing two years for him and the team. He's earned more than $11 million after signing as a free agent from Green Bay, despite rushing for just 294 yards and three touchdowns this season and 260 yards and two touchdowns last season.