Texans linebacker/defensive lineman Jadeveon Clowney is "unlikely to play" this Monday, according to Texans head coach Bill O'Brien.

"He's dealing with a back issue and it's painful, so we've got to give it a little more time," O'Brien said. "I would say he would be unlikely to play on Monday night though."

Clowney exited Houston's Week 8 win against the Titans with a back injury and hasn't practiced this week -- Houston, who is headed to Cincinnati to play under the lights on ESPN's Monday Night Football, were on a bye last week. According to reports, there wasn't any structural damaged.

"Look, it hasn't been easy for him," O'Brien said. "No question about it. He's had to deal with some injures early in his career. You don't wish that on anybody. He's in there right now trying to get better, trying to get treatment, trying to get back out on the field. Injuries are part of the game, and when they happen to young players it's important for young players to really learn how to deal with it and try to get over it and that's what he's doing. He's working with the trainers to get treatment and trying to get back out on the field and help our team."

Texans beat writer Aaron Wilson detailed Clowney's history with injuries: