Texans Pro Bowl quarterback Deshaun Watson isn't practicing Tuesday morning, marking he first time since reporting to training camp that he hasn't participated.
Watson had his right foot examined by a trainer Monday.
The injury isn't regarded as major, according to sources. Not practicing is a precautionary measure, especially given Watson's unresolved standing trade request. So far at camp, Watson has been limited to individual drills and scout team alignment work and doesn't take snaps in full-team drills.
The Texans are in full pads for the first time of camp Tuesday morning.
Watson reported to camp to avoid $50,000 daily fines he would have accrued if he had been placed on the reserve-did not report list.
Watson is drawing interest from multiple teams who are conducting their due diligence on his situation, including 10 complaints filed with the Houston Police Department and 22 civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and/or sexual misconduct.
Watson, through his attorney, Rusty Hardin, has denied wrongdoing.
Watson has been replaced by Tyrod Taylor as the Texans' starting quarterback.
The Texans’ players appear to be effectively and calmly compartmentalizing the situation, expressing support for Watson as a person while staying out of his unresolved business with management. They’re also embracing Taylor, 31, as their new leader and quarterback.
“Absolutely, me and Deshaun are friends,” said Taylor, who has the same private quarterbacks coach, Quincy Avery, as Watson. “We've known each other for a number of years now. We've had conversations on the field, off the field, about football, about life. Everything has been a positive conversation, and it will continue to be that way.”
When asked if Watson’s ongoing presence at training camp is perhaps a distraction, Taylor replied: “No, it hasn’t.”
Taylor added “He’s part of the team. When we come out here, we’re all focused on working and getting better at every aspect. That’s different for every person.”
Aaron Wilson has covered the NFL for 20 seasons, including the Texans, Baltimore Ravens, Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars. He has previously written for The Houston Chronicle and The Baltimore Sun. He’s on Twitter: @AaronWilson_NFL and Instagram: @aaronwilson7128.
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