Although training camp my be in full swing, the Houston Texans have taken a cautious approach with defensive end J.J. Watt so far. It appears to all be part of the plan for head coach Bill O'Brien.
Watt has ended three of the last four seasons on injured reserve. According to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle, O'Brien is pleased with what he has seen from the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year:
“He’s doing fine,” O’Brien said. “I mean, he’s played a lot of football and he knows how to play football. What’s important for him and for us is he’s in great condition and that he’s ready to go on September 10.”
O'Brien's comments indicate that while Watt is well on track to take part in the 2020 NFL season opener, the team is doing all it can to lessen his workload in training camp. The hope is that the veteran will be able stay healthy for the grind of a 16-game season that includes playoffs.
After all, O'Brien made headlines for the wrong reasons his underwhelming return after trading wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Regardless, expectations seemingly remain as high as ever for the Texans going into the 2020 campaign.
Watt is not the only key player whose activity is being closely monitored following an unprecedented offseason due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Wide receiver Will Fuller remains limited as he continues to work his way back from double-groin surgery. Meanwhile, cornerback Gareon Conley is out with an ankle injury.
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