That was quick.
Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt made the club’s opening training camp practice Thursday despite initially being placed on the physically unable to perform list four days before camp opened.
Watt’s placement on the PUP list was precautionary as the 30-year-old enters his ninth NFL season. The reality is the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year is still a year removed from recovering from two seasons lost to injury that resulted in a paltry eight games played over that span. Watt could use any available rest that is offered.
However, managing injuries is part of a collaborative effort. Watt had knee surgery in the offseason, and the club is clearly trying to make sure he doesn’t overdo it. While last season players managing injuries worked with coach Bill O’Brien, head athletic trainer Geoff Kaplan, and then-general manager Brian Gaine, it is anticipated the same collaborative effort is in place, just now with no full-time GM.
