Blue credits yoga for making him a more explosive runner
WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W. Va. — Texans backup running back Alfred Blue uses brute force and power to fuel his rugged style on the football field.
He’s all shoulders, thighs and knees when he collides with opposing linebackers.
However, Blue also has employed a training strategy to make him more durable, flexible and explosive. He utilizes yoga and Pilates to prepare for the rigors of the game.
“Pilates, yoga, you name it,” Blue said. “I would say I’m probably a little stronger. More fit.”
Between warrior poses and other elements of yoga, the 6-2, 225-pound former LSU standout has made a strong impression this preseason.
Blue is noticeably leaner and quicker, making sharp cuts in the open field.
“I think it’s helping a lot,” Blue said. “I think it’s made me more explosive. It’s the range of motion in your hips and stuff (to) be able to make those cuts and stuff in the open field.”
During the Texans’ 27-17 loss Wednesday to the Carolina Panthers, Blue delivered a 16-yard touchdown run when he exhibited a burst after an excellent block from wide receiver Wendall Williams. Blue finished with 33 yards on five carries.
“It was just great blocking upfront, made a great cut, Wendall made a great block,” said Blue, who rushed for 420 yards and one touchdown last season and totaled 1,646 yards and five scores in three NFL seasons. “From there, I saw the end zone and there was a safety in front of me. It was just the mindset of going in and not being denied.”
Club takes chance on WR Ellington
The Texans’ search for depth at wide receiver took another turn Friday when they signed Bruce Ellington, who played for the San Francisco 49ers and New York Jets.
Ellington was recently cut by the Jets when he failed a physical after being claimed off waivers by the 49ers. He tore his hamstring last August and missed the season.
Ellington has 19 career receptions for 215 yards and two touchdowns since being drafted in the fourth round by the 49ers out of South Carolina. He averaged 25.6 yards per kick return and 7.7 yards per punt return with the 49ers.
Watson stays a steady course
Following an encouraging preseason debut in which Deshaun Watson dazzled with his mobility and poise, the Texans’ rookie quarterback hasn’t changed his even-keel approach.
Watson has a humble, level-headed personality with a blue-collar work ethic.
“I really have seen the same guy every single day since he’s been here,” Texans coach Bill O’Brien said. “He’s got a great demeanor. He’s got a great way about him. … I think that’s what’s one of the things that is a good, positive trait that he has.”
Covington keeps getting better
Defensive end Christian Covington emerged as an important player last season when the former sixth-round draft pick from Rice played in every game with five starts.
He recorded 26 tackles along with one sack, two quarterback hits and two tackles for losses.
Covington is listed atop the depth chart at right end.
“He’s a hard-working guy,” coach Bill O’Brien said. “He really understands our defense. He’s one of the more improved guys over the last few years.”
McKinney among trio back on field
The Texans got healthier Friday as a trio of players returned to practice.
Inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney was back working after being sidelined for roughly a week with an undisclosed injury. He led the 2016 Texans with 129 tackles.
Tight end Stephen Anderson and cornerback Treston Decoud also returned to practice.
Wide receiver Braxton Miller didn’t practice Friday after being examined by trainers during the Carolina game.
Odds and ends
Golfing legend Lee Trevino attended practice. He’s the golf pro emeritus at The Greenbrier. … Former Texans running back Jonathan Grimes signed a one-year contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars..