In the relentless Houston heat, Brandon Dunn worked on his technique with the other defensive linemen near the sideline of the practice field in training camp.

A former undrafted player, Dunn does not take any reps for granted as he prepares for his sixth NFL season.

"I'm undrafted," Dunn said. "You know, some guys, they don't even make it this far. And for me to be here today in front of you guys is a blessing. You know, still got my chip on my shoulder. I still feel like some people don't believe I'm supposed to be here. But listen, I'm here to work. I get better. My work and my play is self-explanatory."

Dunn began his career with the Chicago Bears in 2014, but signed with the Texans in 2015. Last year, he signed a contract extension with Houston and started all 13 games he played. He tied his career high in total tackles (26) and added three quarterback hits and one fumble recovery. The defensive lineman missed the final three games of the season after suffering a season-ending injury against the Chicago Bears in Week 14.

"I'm 100 percent right now," Dunn said. "I got cleared to play at the end of June so I'm back with the team. I'm back moving. Just been rehabbing ever since my injury. So it feels good to be back out here."

In 2021, Dunn will get to work under position coach Bobby King, who previously served as the Texans linebackers coach and new defensive coordinator Lovie Smith, whom Dunn refers to as a walking "Webster's" full of knowledge. Dunn, in a room filled with veteran defensive linemen, says the entire group is willing to learn and ask questions to continue to improve, like himself.

"Me being undrafted, maybe like two years ago, was a big drive for me," Dunn said. "But now that is just getting better and understanding that I belong here. I can play with these guys. And on top of that my team needs me to win. So I'm happy to be in the position I am in. I'm an underdog and I wouldn't have it any other way."