(SportsEyez.com Photo)It was a sweltering hot Sunday just for a sportswriter like myself. Saying that, you can imagine how it was for the gladiators of the grid iron in 95 degree heat and 89% humidity running drills and practice. However, even with the adverse weather conditions, these elite men performed at a high level throughout the practice.
We talked with linebacker Xavier Adibi about his impending increased role with the first team as starting strong side linebacker for the first four games of the regular season. As of now, Adibi looks to be the starter while strong side linebacker Brian Cushing serves his 4 game suspension for a positive PED test last season. When I asked him about being the starter, Adibi replied "I'm definitely ready and it feels good. I love to play ball, it's unfortunate what happened to Cushing that led for me to step up but I'm ready to play ball."
Wide Receiver Andre Johnson did not disappoint as he made his catches with precision and poise. It seemed as though Johnson picked out every discrepancy in the very youthful Houston secondary. Rookie and 1st round pick, CB Kareem Jackson, has been matched up against Andre Johnson and has been burned every time. Defensive leader and Strong Safety Bernard Pollard tells Jackson how and what he is doing wrong in his coverage and at his position. It's great to see Pollard talking to and challenging everyone on the field, both offense and defense. Pollard has clearly emerged as the defensive leader on this team since his acquisition last fall.
The Texans have 6 tight ends at training camp this season, with 2 of them on the Physically Unable to Perform List (PuP). Rookie tight end Garrett Graham has definitely impressed me the most, especially with his catching ability. On Sunday, Graham had an extraordinary one handed catch with his left hand that was over thrown.That kinda of hustle and determination I believe will land him a place on the 53-man roster at the conclusion of training camp.
The Texans from Houston looked sharp all around, poised, and determined for a deep playoff run this season. Keep checking back for more updates.
By: Collin Dakheel
Head Writer/Creator
SportsEyez.com
No comments:
Post a Comment