Houston Texans' Bill O'Brien expects Deshaun Watson to be ready for camp

Houston Texans coach Bill O'Brien expects quarterback Deshaun Watson to be ready for training camp, and he hopes defensive end J.J. Watt will be able to participate in practice then, too.

Watson played in only seven games, including six starts, during his promising rookie season in 2017 before he tore his ACL in practice, ending his season.

"Doing a good job in his rehab, I think he's on schedule to be able to participate in training camp," O'Brien said on NFL Network regarding Watson. "We're excited about that. We've had a good four-week session with him in the offseason program."

It remains to be seen whether Watson will be a full participant at the start of camp, but indications are positive.

O'Brien also expressed optimism regarding the 29-year-old Watt. He did not give a timetable for Watt's return to practice, but said he expected him to be at full strength at some point.

Watt's 2017 season ended with a fracture of his left leg. He is a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

"He's doing a lot of great things on and off the field, relative to being able to be back and ready to go," O'Brien said. "Obviously we're not going to rush any of our injured guys. Those guys are right on schedule. J.J. is doing a great job with his rehab.

"This is a guy that's one of the best players to ever play the game. I would never bet against J.J. Watt. He's going to be back, he's going to be at full strength, and he's going to help us win a lot of games."