Houston Texans running back Ben Tate, a limited participant in last week's practices because of a toe injury, is unlikely to play Monday night against the New York Jets, a league source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.
Texans coach Gary Kubiak had been optimistic that the backup running back would be able to play after he practiced Saturday. Justin Forsett will be counted on to spell starter Arian Foster if Tate can't play.
Tate has rushed for 117 yards on 30 carries with two touchdowns this season. In his rookie season in 2011, he rushed for 942 yards and four touchdowns in 15 games.
Foster, whose 103 carries rank second in the league, has 380 yards and four touchdowns this season for the unbeaten Texans. He had 143 total yards and two touchdowns in his only game against the Jets in 2010.
The Jets have struggled to stop the run this season and currently are ranked 26th in the NFL, with 691 yards allowed in four games.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.