Watson picks brain of ageless QB, learns how to be ‘man of the team’
WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. — A few minutes after the Texans finished their Wednesday practice with New England, rookie quarterback Deshaun Watson spent some time chatting with Tom Brady.
Brady, 40 and playing in his 18th season, did most of the talking. Afterward, Watson showed his respect and admiration for the five-time Super Bowl winner.
“It’s a blessing to be in his presence and have that opportunity to learn from one of the best that’s done it for a long time,” Watson said. “It’s cool to watch a guy like Tom — one of the best to ever do it — and see him in live practice to see how he works.”
So, inquiring minds wanted to know what Brady and Watson talked about?
“We were just kind of congratulating each other on all the success we’ve had,” Watson said.
Brady didn’t win a national championship at Michigan the way Watson did at Clemson last season. Brady did win his first Super Bowl ring in 2001, his second season.
After playing for Bill O’Brien for five seasons, Brady provided Watson with some insight into the Texans’ coach.
“He was giving me a little tip here and there about this league and this system and coach OB,” Watson said. “It was a good talk.”
For a young quarterback like Watson, who’s trying to wrestle
the starting job from Tom Savage, there’s a lot to like about Brady. What impresses Watson the most?
“Just how consistent he is and how every play is a game rep,” he said. “Each time he takes the field, he’s taking charge, being a leader. He’s being the man of the team and controlling everything.”
Even though he’s a rookie, Watson would like to become the “man of the team,” but he’s got Savage ahead of him. They compete with Brandon Weeden every day in practice.
“We learn (and) we compete,” Watsons aid. “We all support each other, and we want the best every time.
“Whoever’s on the field, we want them to be successful — score touchdowns, make good decisions and protect the ball.”
Watson has made steady improvement. Since his impressive performance in last week’s preseason opener at Carolina, he seems to be more comfortable in the offense and more confident in what he’s doing on the field.
“I’m a confident player (and) a confident person,” he said. “I prepare myself. I make sure that I put in the work every day and make sure I’m prepared every time I step on the field.
“It was good to kind of get my feet wet and play against another team.”
And Watson was satisfied with his performance against the Patriots.
“I thought I did pretty good,” he said. “Yesterday (I) made good decisions, quick decisions and did the basic fundamentals.
“Today was the same. It was two good practices against a very good team. It was good work for us.”
O’Brien was asked after the first practice against New England how a coach knows when it’s time to play a young quarterback.
Watson was asked Wednesday when he’ll know it’s time for him to play.
“Honestly, I have no idea,” he said. “It’s one of those things where it just kind of clicks, and everyone sees it. I’ll feel it. Coach OB will feel it. But right now I’m just being patient (and) learning as much as I can.
“The progress since camp (began) has been very good. Honestly, in the spring, I knew what I was doing, but at the same time my head was swimming. Whenever I step on the field today, I can control the offense and do what they ask me to do and make good decisions fast.”
Watson is excited about Saturday night’s game against the Patriots at NRG Stadium.
“It’s going to be great,” he said. “I know we have a great fan base. The fans are going to come be supportive, and it’s going to be fun.
“I can’t wait to get there and really just get a little taste of what the season’s going to be like.”