Gary Kubiak ‘Feeling Good’ After Mini-Stroke; Uncertain to Return this Week

It’s been an ugly start to the 2013 season for the Houston Texans, but things got scary on Sunday night when head coach Gary Kubiak collapsed on the field during halftime of the team’s 27-24 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. However, after being treated and evaluated by hospital doctors, Kubiak is said to be feeling better and is recovering from what doctors are calling a “mini-stroke,” according to an NFL.com report.

While the official diagnosis sounds alarming, the Texans and Kubiak’s family are relieved that Kubiak’s condition isn’t life threatening. According to ESPN.com, Kubiak’s family went on to say that he was “feeling good” on Monday night in the hospital, but will remain there until sometime Tuesday.

“It is treatable, which seems to be the reason for the optimism when you talk to Texans people,” said NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport after speaking with sources close to the situation.

In a statement on Monday, the Texans said they were uncertain when Kubiak would return to coaching the team and stressed that the most important thing was making sure he was okay.

“Our primary concern is of course with Gary’s health and well-being,” Texans general manager Rick Smith said in the statement. “There have been so many people throughout the city and across the country that have reached out to express their love and support, and we are thankful for everyone’s thoughts and prayers. Gary is alert, coherent and in good spirits. He is continuing to be evaluated and monitored.”

Considering there’s a good chance Kubiak will miss this weekend’s game against the Cardinals, defensive coordinator Wade Phillips will likely fill in. In finishing Sunday’s game at the helm, Phillips saw his team’s 21-3 lead evaporate in the eventual loss. Still, the Houston players remain confident that they will find success under whoever takes over the head coaching duties.

“I think we are in great hands with whoever has to step up,” Texans linebacker Joe Mays said. “We have a great group of coaches, we have a great group of players. At the end of the day, we’re going to go out and play great football. That’s how I feel about it.”

Unfortunately, at 2-6, the Texans are four full games back of first place in the AFC South and have a lot of work to do to reach the postseason. This setback could make things even tougher on them, if Kubiak is missing for a significant chunk of time.