After learning that J.J. Watt will might not be available for the season’s first two games, Houston Texans fans were given a glimmer of hope from head coach Bill O’Brien.
O'Brien on Watt: "I don't think anybody can predict when J.J. will be back. He'll be back sooner rather than later."
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 21, 2016
“Sooner” is certainly encouraging for anyone even vaguely associated with the Texans.
Watt is a four-time Pro Bowler, four-time NFL First-team All-Pro, and the three time (and reigning) NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Additionally, including his rookie year of 2011, the superstar defensive end has never before missed a game.
The less that Houston has to go Watt-less in 2016, the better off it will be.
Unfortunately, in cases like this, “sooner” can be something of a mixed blessing. Back injuries like the one Watt is recovering from with must be dealt with cautiously.
An early return for Watt is a good thing, as long as neither he or the Texans are rushing him back prematurely.
In the meantime, Texans fans can sate themselves with images of Jadeveon Clowney absolutely clowning opposing offensive linemen, which was regularly the case on Saturday night (watch here).