I was reading up on the Texans chat on the official site, and picked up a few tidbits about our OTAs. Post any more information you can find here if you'd like:
On linebacker competition:
On Dunta
On the Rookies
On Dan O
On who was there
On the Running backs
more here: http://www.houstontexans.com/news/LiveChat.asp
I bolded the parts I found interesting. Especially that she said Diles was the most consistent player on the entire defense. That speaks volumes about that guy.
Brooke Bentley said:The Texans just walked off the field after their first practice during organized team activities (OTAs). These non-mandatory workouts run on May 18-21, May 26-28, June 1-4 and June 9-11 and they give coaches a chance to evaluate the team, especially the rookies and new free agents, before training camp. I wrote about the five big questions that the Texans have going into OTAs. After Day 1, you already could see that two of the biggest storyline will be: Who will start at weakside LB and who will be the backup to RB Steve Slaton. Without further ado, let's dive into it.
On linebacker competition:
Brooke Bentley said:The competition at LB started the moment the Texans drafted Brian Cushing No. 15 overall. D-coordinator Frank Bush wants Cushing starting at the strongside. There's going to be a lot expected of him right away. Last year, Zac Diles moved from backup MIKE to SAM. Now, he is working out on the weakside and competing against Xavier Adibi, who won a starting spot there last season. Bush told me he felt like Diles was the most consistent player on defense until he was injured last November. I think Diles will find his way on the field. Cato June has played both the SAM and WILL positions and will provide depth. Also, look for Kevin Bentley to back up DeMeco Ryans at middle linebacker.
On Dunta
Brooke Bentley said:Dunta didn't come to OTAs, which are not mandatory workouts. But coach Gary Kubiak said that Dunta assured him that he will be at the first mandatory workout, which are mini-camps in the middle of June
On the Rookies
Brooke Bentley said:A lot of these rookies look that part of pros right away. Brian Cushing was the biggest linebacker on the field by far. The Texans aren't tackling right now, but Cushing looked like he wanted to lay some people out. He's going to have to work on his technique and learn the defensive schemes, but the learning curve should be steep for him. Third-round draft pick Antoine Caldwell was holding his own at center. He can play both guard or center, but assistant head coach Alex Gibbs worked him hard at center. Caldwell is sharp and he should pick up the zone scheme quickly. Tight end Anthony Hill has long arms and looks like he could develop into a good blocker. James Casey layed out to make a catch that was impressive. Defensive end Connor Barwin wasn't there because he is in school until June13.
On Dan O
Brooke Bentley said:QB Dan Orlovsky was taking reps behing Matt Schaub in OTAs today, and I think he's very impressive. Orlovsky is taller than Schaub and he gets great zip on the ball.
On who was there
Brooke Bentley said:As for no-shows, CB Dunta Robinson wasn't there because of his contract holdout and DE Connor Barwin, the second-round draft pick, is still in school. Everyone else, including DeMeco Ryans, was there.
On the Running backs
Brooke Bentley said:I was impressed with Arian Foster's size. He looks like someone who could excel in the Texans' one-cut scheme. I think the coaches are excited to see what they have in him. Moats also is very quick and has a great work ethic- he's the perfect backup guy. However, GM Rick Smith told me they will continue to look at who is available and see if they can upgrade their talent. So there could be some additions to this group.
more here: http://www.houstontexans.com/news/LiveChat.asp
I bolded the parts I found interesting. Especially that she said Diles was the most consistent player on the entire defense. That speaks volumes about that guy.