Deshaun Watson's rehab from a late October knee injury continues to progress smoothly. The quarterback was on the field for parts of practice on Tuesday.
It was the second day of organized team activities (OTAs). The second-year signal-caller wore a helmet and red jersey, and took part in individual and 7-on-7 drills. Although his physical circumstances are different than this time a year ago, his mentality remained the same.
"Today's just another opportunity for myself and the team to work on our craft and correct the basic stuff that we made mistakes on yesterday, and just continue to get one percent better," Watson said.
Today, however, wasn't the first time he's worked with his teammates on the field since his injury. Watson's taken part in offseason conditioning, and said he's worked his right arm out quite a bit.
"I've been throwing on the field for awhile now," Watson said.
He also said his knee "feels well" and that he was "comfortable" during the work outside at the Houston Methodist Training Center.
His head coach has been impressed by the progress Watson's made.
"He's really improved," Bill O'Brien said. "His knowledge of our offense. His knowledge of defensive football. He's doing what he can do out on the field, which is very good for us. Any time he's out there doing things on the field and he's getting better every day.
Watson tossed 19 touchdowns last season in just seven games, and the Texans averaged over 40 points per game in his final four starts. One of his new teammates, safety Tyrann Mathieu, was glad to have Watson out on the field.
"I think it's important to have your leader present," Mathieu said. "He's been in the weight room every day with us, working out, doing everything with us. I think it's good, just from an energy standpoint, just being able to see him and really feed off his vibe and his energy. He's been a great teammate for sure.
Watson and the Texans return to the practice field on Wednesday.
