The Houston Texans were undoubtedly one of the most injury-riddled teams in the 2017 NFL season. Fortunately, they have regrouped and are poised for a strong comeback next season behind quarterback Deshaun Watson.

Although his rookie season was cut early by an ACL tear, Watson is reportedly ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation process. However, head coach Bill O'Brien said during an appearance on PFT Live that his participation this offseason will still be limited:

“I like where he is right now,” coach Bill O’Brien said. “I don’t think that he’ll be able to do much on the field in the beginning of the offseason program. He’ll be working with the trainers on the field, but not with us. . . . I think by the time OTAs roll around he may be able to do a few things with the team. We’re going to incorporate him into some of the things we’re doing during Phase Two and make sure everybody’s around him and he’s around everybody else. We’re not going to rush it. Obviously, training camp is the ultimate goal for him, to be in there during training camp. I do feel like by the end of the spring he’ll be able to do a few things with the team.”

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Benjamin Adducchio ·

It makes sense that the Texans would take every precaution they can with Watson's return. Fortunately, much of the offseason is dedicated to fine-tuning things up for the players before training camp. However, the focus for Watson will be getting his knee back to 100 percent by then.

O'Brien has expressed his desire to restructure the offense around Watson's versatile skill set this offseason. That said, it would greatly benefit the process if the young gunslinger can start to build as much chemistry with the offense as he can. The only way to do so is to have Watson himself practice the new scheme. Regardless, their priority is making sure he suffers no setbacks before he is completely ready to go.