The weeks that Texans Pro Bowl left offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil missed after testing positive for COVID-19 in August has impacted his conditioning and limited his practice time.
Activated this week from the reserve-COVID-19 list, Tunsil is expected to be in game shape for the Texans' season openerSept. 12against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium.
“He’s coming along," Texans coach David Culley said. "He’s not where he needs to be right now, but his condition is getting better and better. You know we limited him in practice in terms of how many reps that he gets from a time standpoint. He’s coming along, but he’s not there yet.”
Tunsil tested positive prior to the Texans' preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers. He didn't experience serious symptoms, according to a league source.
The return of arguably the Texans' best player regardless of position was especially welcome to the player whose blindside he'll protect: quarterback Tyrod Taylor.
Taylor stayed in touch with Tunsil during his illness.
"It was good to see him come into the locker room, just his presence amongst the guys means a lot," Taylor said prior to Tunsil being activated. "I know the offensive linemen and just the rest of the team have the utmost respect for him, and just happy to have him back. I know he's eager to get back on the field, and we need him to be ready for Week One and excited to see him back in the huddle.”
Aaron Wilson has covered the NFL for 20 years and has previously written for The Houston Chronicle and The Baltimore Sun. He’s on Twitter: @AaronWilson_NFL and Instagram: @aaronwilson7128