FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The Texans begin their third preseason under Bill O’Brien on Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Here are five Texans, who have been impressive in the offseason program and training camp, worth watching:

WILL FULLER WIDE RECEIVER

His coaches and teammates knew the first-round pick had speed because he ran the fastest 40-yard dash (4.31) at the combine. But he also had a reputation for bad hands after dropping 10 passes at Notre Dame last season. But he has dropped few passes. He has shown strong, quick hands. His route running has improved. He puts moves on cornerbacks that leave them spinning. He has that take-your-breathaway speed. So far, Fuller has been more than a deep threat.

WENDALL WILLIAMS WIDE RECEIVER

The undrafted rookie from tiny Cumberlands College has been outstanding on returns. Nobody has caught him from behind. He’s just as fast as Will Fuller, possibly faster. When he turns the corner, he scorches the field and almost always puts distance between himself and whoever is chasing him. He’s undersized at 5-10, 180, but his acceleration and elusiveness impress teammates and coaches. To make the team, he has to excel on special teams and contribute as a receiver.

DEVON STILL DEFENSIVE END

He might not play a lot against the 49ers. But when he does, the coaches want to see if he performs in a game like he has in the offseason program and camp. Still is 6-5, 305 and in position to start for the first time in his four-year career. He’s strong at the point of attack. He knows how to use his hands to get off blocks. Ideally, he will be a strong run-down player and a pass-rush threat from the inside. He’s a smart, crafty player who is still eager to learn.

A.J. BOUYE CORNERBACK

The four-year veteran has been exceptional in coverage. He’s only 24, and he has improved every year since signing as an undrafted free agent. He knows the system. He’s comfortable with what defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel and secondary coach John Butler want him to do. His anticipation has improved. He has become more instinctive. He breaks on the ball fast and has good makeup speed on the receiver. He covers receivers relentlessly and plays hard against the run.

TYLER ERVIN RUNNING BACK

The fourth-round pick from San Jose State has exceptional speed and excellent quickness, whether he’s lining up at running back, receiver or as a returner. At 5-10, 185 he’s not going to power through defenders, but he has tantalizing moves to make them miss, especially in the open field. He has terrific hands, and he lines up all over the field. The idea is to just get the ball to him and see what he can do in space. He’s an ideal change-of-pace back like Darren Sproles.