FIVE TAKEAWAYS FROM TEXANS TRAINING CAMP

The Texans returned outdoors for practice. It was hot and humid, but they had a spirited practice that wasn’t as long as some have been. Coach Bill O’Brien told the players if they do their drills the way they’re supposed to, they’ll be done.

1

Complete day: There’s much more to being the starting quarterback than throwing to receivers. Brock Osweiler had another good day putting the ball where it was supposed to go, but his coaches and teammates were more impressed with his command of the huddle, his knowledge of the offense, his confidence at the line of scrimmage and his decision making.

2

Hitting his stride: After starting slow because he missed the offseason program recovering from injuries, second-year cornerback Kevin Johnson has been outstanding the last two weeks in practice and games. He had another exceptional practice Tuesday. After wearing down at the end of his rookie year, Johnson is stronger physically and mentally. He was all over the field.

3

Other positives: Because running back Lamar Miller is so fast and recorded TD runs of 97 and 85 yards the last two seasons with Miami, many think his game revolves around speed. He’s fast and is capable of scoring whenever he touches the ball, but he showed again in practice Tuesday that he’s a superb receiver and a solid blocker, especially when it comes to picking up the blitz.

4

Run stopper: Outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus, who emerged as a big-time pass rusher last season, is playing in his fifth year, but he’s still only 26. Mercilus wants to excel against the run and pass. It’s obvious watching him in practice that he’s not making mental mistakes. On run plays, he’s almost always around the ball. He takes a lot of pride in stopping the run.

5

Has it covered: Secondyear inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney has been working hard in practice on dropping into coverage. Last year’s second-round pick played well in every phase over the second half of his rookie season. They were 8-3 when he started. He’s been strong against the run in the two preseason games. His pass coverage has to improve, but the coaches are confident it will.