The Patriots advanced to the AFC Championship Game with a 28-16 victory over the Texans at Gillette Stadium on Sunday. 

The New England Patriots are moving on to the AFC Championship after defeating the Houston Texans 28-16 in the divisional playoff round.

Game notes and stats from the Patriots playoff game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

New England Patriots Head Coach Mike Vrabel and select players comment on their game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Tonga (foot) returns from a multi-week absence as it's all hands on deck for the Patriots in Sunday's divisional round matchup. 

The New England Patriots and Houston Texans announce the following inactive players ahead of their NFL Divisional Round game on Sunday, January 18, 2026. 

Complete broadcast information for this week's AFC Divisional playoff game between the New England Patriots and the Houston Texans.

The New England Patriots will host the Houston Texans for an AFC Divisional Playoff game on Sunday, January 18 at 3 PM.

Along with activating Austin, the Patriots elevated RB D'Ernest Johnson and DT Leonard Taylor III for Sunday's playoff showdown vs. the Texans. 

The New England Patriots announced that CB Alex Austin has been activated to the 53-man roster from injured reserve. In addition, the Patriots elevated RB D'Ernest Johnson and DL Leonard Taylor III to the active roster from the practice squad.

New England Patriots linebacker Jahlani Tavai has been selected as the recipient of the team's 2025 Ed Block Courage Award. The honor is bestowed annually upon a player or players who best exemplify the principles of courage and sportsmanship while also serving as a symbol of professionalism and dedication.

The New England Patriots and the Houston Texans announce the following player injuries and game statuses.