HOUSTON -- Charles James didn't work this hard to get here to leave before he absolutely had to stop playing.
If you know that about the Houston Texans cornerback, then you understand his mentality during the past month. He's been playing with a fractured right foot, Texans coach Bill O'Brien said. On Sunday in Tennessee, the injury finally became too significant for James to continue. The Texans will place him on injured reserve. James said he will need surgery to repair the injury.
"I held off for as long as I could because I wanted to be a part of something special I wanted to share the special moment of making it to the playoffs with a team that was counted out by the world," James wrote in a post on Instagram. "I shed a few tears already but that's life ya know I love this game I love y'all boys as a whole! Kick ass the rest of the way fellas!"
James was with the Texans in training camp after spending some time on team's practice squad last year. He was featured on Hard Knocks, and became known for the wacky socks he wore to practices. His story of perseverance also resonated with fans.
The Texans released him in final cuts. While Houston wanted him back for the practice squad, James opted to take a practice squad spot with the Ravens.
The Texans re-signed James in October and an improvement on their special teams units followed that move. He also offered depth on defense that helped the Texans through injuries in their defensive backfield.
James thanked Texans fans in his post, and said he hoped he would play in Houston for a long time. Then, a warning to his teammates.
"P.S To all Texan players please do not touch my damn socks in my locker any of y'all".
