Texans 2014 off-season schedule

[thunderkyss]

Has the Texans announced their off-season schedule yet?

April is right around the corner.

 

[CloakNNNdagger]

I've included the NFL's 2014 offseason schedule (starting with today), which was released by the league.

March 22 NFL Regional Combine, Doctors Hospital Training Facility at Nova Southeastern University, Davie, Florida.

March 22-23 NFL Regional Combine, Virginia Mason Athletic Center, Renton, Washington.

March 23-26 Annual Meeting, Orlando, Florida.

March 29 NFL Regional Combine, Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center, Indianapolis, Indiana.

March 29-30 NFL Regional Combine, Under Armour Performance Center, Owings Mills, Maryland.

April 7 Clubs that hired a new head coach after the end of the 2013 regular season may begin offseason workout programs.

April 12-13 Super Regional Combine, Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan.

April 21 Clubs with returning head coaches may begin offseason workout programs.

May 2 Deadline for Restricted Free Agents to sign Offer Sheets.

May 7 Deadline for Prior Club to exercise Right of First Refusal to Restricted Free Agents.

May 8-10 2014 NFL Draft, New York City, New York.

May 19-21 NFL Spring League Meeting, Atlanta, Georgia.

June 2 Deadline for Prior Club to send "June 1 Tender" to its unsigned Unrestricted Free Agents. If the player has not signed a Player Contract with a Club by July 22 or the first scheduled day of the first NFL training camp, whichever is later, he may negotiate or sign a Player Contract from that date until the Tuesday following the 10th weekend of the regular season, at 4:00 p.m., New York time, only with his Prior Club.

June 2 Deadline for Prior Club to send "June 1 Tender" to its unsigned Restricted Free Agents who received a Qualifying Offer for a Right of First Refusal Only in order for such player to be subject to the CBA's "June 15 Tender" provision.

June 16 Deadline for club to withdraw Qualifying Offer to Restricted Free Agents and still retain exclusive negotiating rights by substituting "June 15 Tender" of one-year contract at 110 percent of the player's prior-year Paragraph 5 Salary (with all other terms of his prior-year contract carried forward unchanged).

June 22-28 Rookie Symposium, Aurora, Ohio.

July 15 At 4:00 p.m., New York time, deadline for any Club that designated a Franchise Player to sign such player to a multi-year contract or extension. After this date, the player may sign only a one-year contract with his Prior Club for the 2014 season, and such contract cannot be extended until after the Club's last regular season game.

Mid-July Clubs are permitted to open preseason training camp for Rookies and First-Year Players beginning seven days prior to the club's earliest permissible mandatory reporting date for veteran players.

Veteran players (defined as a player with at least one pension-credited season) other than quarterbacks or "injured players" (as defined in CBA Article 21, Section 6) may report to a club's preseason training camp no earlier than 15 days prior to the club's first scheduled preseason game or July 15, whichever is later.

Veteran quarterbacks and injured players may be required to report to the club's preseason training camp no earlier than five days immediately prior to the mandatory reporting date for all other veteran players, provided the club has already opened (or simultaneously opens) its official preseason training camp for all Rookies and First-Year players.

A three-day acclimation period will apply to players who are on a club's roster up to and including the mandatory veteran reporting date. Players who join the roster after that date may practice (including wearing pads) and play immediately after passing a physical.

July 22 Signing Period ends for Unrestricted Free Agents to whom a "June 1 Tender" was made by Prior Club. After this date and until 4:00 p.m., New York time, on the Tuesday following the 10th weekend of the regular season, Prior Club has exclusive negotiating rights. (* or the first scheduled day of the first NFL training camp, whichever is later.)

July 22 Signing Period ends for Transition Players with outstanding tenders. After this date and until 4:00 p.m., New York time, on the Tuesday following the 10th weekend of the regular season, Prior Club has exclusive negotiating rights.

 

[Playoffs]

Dave Zangaro ‏@DZangaro

The #Texans begin...

Off-season program: April 7

Voluntary minicamp: May 6-8

Organized Team Activities(OTAs): May 27-29, June 2-3, June 5, June 9-10, June 12-13

Mandatory minicamp: June 17-19

 

[honored82]

May 8th is the draft. so how is Voluntary Mini camp on 6-8. Is it without the coaches ?

Also, Off-season program means off the field stuff ? classroom and Gym ?

 

[CloakNNNdagger]

May 8th is the draft. so how is Voluntary Mini camp on 6-8. Is it without the coaches ?

Also, Off-season program means off the field stuff ? classroom and Gym ?

This might help.

Seven teams open offseason workouts on Monday

Mike Florio on April 3, 2014, 4:02 PM EDT

Before 2011, all NFL teams would have opened their offseason workout programs by now. This year, no one has.

On Monday, seven will.

Teams with new coaches can get started on April 7. Accordingly, the Browns, Lions, Texans, Vikings, Buccaneers, Titans, and Redskins will. The rest of the teams will open up their offseason programs on April 21 or 22.

New teams also can enhance their one three-day mandatory minicamp with a three-day voluntary veteran minicamp held at some point before the draft.

Apart from the minicamps, the offseason program has three phases. Phase One, two weeks in length, consists of strength and condition and rehab exercises only. Coaches can’t be involved, other than strength and conditioning coaches. Footballs aren’t permitted, except that quarterbacks can throw to receivers as long as they aren’t covered.

Phase Two, three weeks in length, can include individual player instruction and drills and team practice without live contact or team offense vs. team defense drills. Teams can run offensive or defensive plays, without a defense or offense on the other side of the line of scrimmage. No helmets can be worn.

Phase Three, which last four weeks, includes up to 10 days of organized team practice activity, also known as “OTAs”. There can be no live contact, but team drills (7-on7, 9-on-9, 11-on-11) are permitted. There also can be no one-on-one offense vs. defense drills and no one-on-one special teams drills.

In addition to individually negotiated workout bonuses, players may receive a daily payment of $175 for participating in workouts or attending classroom instruction. During the offseason workout period (with the exception of the 10 days of OTAs), players can’t be at the team’s facility for more than four hours per day, can’t be at the facility more than four days per week, and can’t be on the field for more than 90 minutes per day.

The offseason restrictions reduce significantly the amount of time NFL players must work, but it also limits their ability to work as much as they want to work. Some players want to do more because they want to get better at their craft. In order to avoid coaches who may abuse the rules, the rules have become so restrictive that players who want more instruction or coaching can’t get it.

It forces players who want extra on-field work to get together among themselves, usually at facilities not nearly as nice as NFL team facilities. It also forces players to risk suffering injuries away from the team facility, which then allows the teams to elect not to pay the players for so-called “non-football injuries.”

While it’s good that players aren’t forced to spend more time at work, it’s unfortunate that those who want to do so can’t. And that’s primarily cause the NFLPA realizes that, without artificial external limits, some if not many coaches will find a way to put the squeeze on players to choose to do more than they really want to do.

 

[CloakNNNdagger]

From HT.com

After three months apart, the Texans get together on Monday morning for their first offseason conditioning work.

The final game of 2013 was a December 29 loss at Tennessee. The team cleaned out lockers the next morning, and scattered. Many have been working out and getting treatments at Reliant Stadium since, but Monday will be the first time the squad is together with the new coaching staff in place.

"It’s an opportunity really for the coaches that haven’t been around these players to get to know
them," general manager Rick Smith said. "It’s for these players to come in and understand what the new system looks like and what the expectation and how were are going to function and conduct our business."

Because the Texans hired Bill O'Brien, they get to start two weeks earlier than teams with incumbent head coaches. O'Brien and his new staff have pored over the roster, on video. Now, they get to see the players working out. Second-year safety

 

[Playoffs]

May 8th is the draft. so how is Voluntary Mini camp on 6-8. Is it without the coaches ?

As it stands, we have one pick on the 8th. Their board will be set. I don't see much need for anyone outside of OB, and that shouldn't take long.

The coaches have been practicing running mock practices at the facilities, so everything should go smoothly.

-- Coaches can’t be involved, other than strength and conditioning coaches. Footballs aren’t permitted, except that quarterbacks can throw to receivers as long as they aren’t covered.

-- Teams can run offensive or defensive plays, without a defense or offense on the other side of the line of scrimmage. No helmets can be worn.

-- There can be no live contact, but team drills are permitted. There also can be no one-on-one offense vs. defense drills and no one-on-one special teams drills.

-- players can’t be at the team’s facility for more than four hours per day, can’t be at the facility more than four days per week, and can’t be on the field for more than 90 minutes per day.

It forces players who want extra on-field work to get together among themselves, usually at facilities not nearly as nice as NFL team facilities. It also forces players to risk suffering injuries away from the team facility, which then allows the teams to elect not to pay the players for so-called “non-football injuries.”

 

[thunderkyss]

2nd

 

[ObsiWan]

Hey that's the deal the players asked for.

 

[Playoffs]

The action will be limited. Only strength and conditioning coaches will be allowed on the field the first two weeks, and the Texans' first voluntary minicamp isn't until May 6-8.

But [C Chris] Myers said players must buy in on day one under O'Brien. A strong showing of veterans Monday will prove the team is moving in the right direction, he said.

"I'm sure there's going to be a lot of turnout for that. I hope 100 percent, especially after last season," Myers said. "Everyone's committed 100 percent. We expect that. If not, there'll be some talking to do to some guys."

The Texans lacked player leadership in 2013, and the locker room weakened as 14 consecutive losses piled up, with some players fending for themselves and others eyeing their next contract with another team. Myers said the O'Brien era represents a clean slate and there's no time to waste for a squad that was the worst in the NFL last season.

"A lot of guys have been in and out of the (practice) facility and met a lot of the coaching staff. It's an exciting time in Houston right now," said Myers, who is entering his 10th NFL season and has played in all 16 regular-season games with the Texans during the last six years. "When you're in the NFL, if you have a close-minded personality - not open to having this new regime come in and implement its scheme - it's not your spot. You've got to be able to have all the openness to be able to learn and treat it like it's brand new. … I'm treating it like it's my rookie year all over again."

http://www.houstonchronicle.com/spo...php?t=498a0e9961d8ff4dd2&t=498a0e9961cc308649


Texans Strength and Conditioning Coaches

Fitzgerald served as Pen State Director of Strength and Conditioning for Football from 2012-13 after spending the previous three seasons (2009-11) overseeing the University of South Carolina strength & conditioning program.

Prior to his time at South Carolina, Fitzgerald held the title of Director of Strength and Conditioning at Harvard, where the football team won back-to-back Ivy League titles over his final two years. While at Harvard, he oversaw the training of all 41 NCAA teams, the largest number in the country.

Fitzgerald served as the Assistant Director of Strength and Conditioning at his alma mater, the University of Maryland, from 2000-05. At Maryland he directed the training for men's basketball, men's lacrosse, women's volleyball, and wrestling while assisting the training for football.

He began his professional career at The Catholic University of America as its first Director of Strength and Conditioning from 1997-99. He then logged a six-month stint as a graduate assistant at Arizona State University before returning to his alma mater.

A native of Philadelphia, Pa., Fitzgerald holds a double degree in political science and history from Maryland, graduating in 1997. He was a three-time letterwinner (1994-96) for the Terrapin football squad.

Fitzgerald is a certified strength and conditioning specialist through both the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) and through the Collegiate Strength & Conditioning Coaches Association (CSCCA).

In May 2010, Fitzgerald earned the certification of Master Strength and Conditioning Coach by the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches association (CSCCa), the highest honor given in the strength and conditioning coaching profession.

Fitzgerald and his wife, Mary, have three sons, Mac, Joe and Luke.

FITZGERALD’S COACHING LEDGER
2014: Head Strength and Conditioning, Houston Texans
2012-13: Director of Strength and Conditioning, Penn State
2009-11: Director of Football Strength and Conditioning, South Carolina
2005-09: Director of Strength and Conditioning, Harvard
2000-05: Assistant Director of Strength and Conditioning, Maryland
1999: Graduate Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach, Arizona State
1997-98: Director of Strength and Conditioning, Catholic University
1997-98: Special Teams Coordinator/Tight Ends Coach, Catholic University​

Hayes came to Houston from Penn State, where he served as assistant strength and conditioning coach for football under Craig Fitzgerald for the 2012-13 seasons.

Prior to Penn State, Hayes served as a graduate assistant football and strength and conditioning coach at Jacksonville University from 2010-11. At Jacksonville, he was the varsity outside linebackers coach and junior varsity defensive coordinator in addition to assisting with strength and conditioning program.

A native of Merritt Island, Fla., Hayes is a Harvard University graduate (2009) and played linebacker on the Crimson football team. As a senior, he garnered second team All-Ivy League recognition. In the first six months of 2010, Hayes was a player/coach for the L'Hospitalet Pioneers of the European Football League, helping the team win the Spanish national championship (LNFA) and a top 10 ranking among all European teams.

HAYES’ COACHING LEDGER

2014: Assistant Strength and Conditioning, Houston Texans
2012-13: Assistant Strength and Conditioning, Penn State
2010-11: Graduate Assistant Football Strength and Conditioning/Outside Linebackers, Jacksonville University
2010: Player/Coach, L’Hospitalet Pioneers (EFL)​

Pleasant came to Houston from Kansas City, where he served as defensive line coach from 2010-2012. He served an NFL Minority Coaching Fellowship with the Chiefs in 2009, working closely with the club’s defensive ends, before being promoted to his role as defensive line coach.

In his three seasons overseeing the defensive line, the Chiefs defensive front accounted for 25.5 sacks and 71 quarterback pressures.

Pleasant owns 14 seasons of NFL playing experience as a defensive lineman, seeing duty in 202 regular season games (157 starts) with Cleveland (1990-95), Baltimore (1996), Atlanta (1997), the New York Jets (1998-99), San Francisco (2000) and New England (2001-03). He is one of just five active NFL assistant coaches to own 200 or more games of playing experience.

It was during his tenure as a player with the Jets that Pleasant began his association with current Texans defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel, who served as the team’s defensive line coach. He finished his career with 598 tackles (407 solo), 58.0 sacks (-345.5 yards), two INTs, 13 forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

The Century, Fla., native started seven career playoff games, owning Super Bowl XXXVI and XXXVIII rings from his tenure with New England. Pleasant produced 26 tackles (25 solo), a sack and a pass defensed in the postseason. He originally entered the NFL as a third-round pick (73rd overall) of Cleveland in the 1990 NFL Draft.

Pleasant was a three-year letterman at Tennessee State, recording 140 tackles (88 solo), 32.0 tackles for loss, 21.0 sacks, two fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles and five passes defensed. He joined a long line of Tennessee State defensive ends to earn Pro Bowl honors in the NFL, including Richard Dent, Claude Humphrey and Ed "Too Tall" Jones. Pleasant earned All-Ohio Valley Conference accolades as a senior. He was an all-state performer as a defensive lineman at Century High School, where he also played basketball and baseball.

PLEASANT’S COACHING LEDGER
2014: Assistant Strength and Conditioning, Houston Texans
2010-12: Defensive Line, Kansas City Chiefs​

 

[thunderkyss]

http://www.houstonchronicle.com/spo...php?t=498a0e9961d8ff4dd2&t=498a0e9961cc308649

But [C Chris] Myers said players must buy in on day one under O'Brien. A strong showing of veterans Monday will prove the team is moving in the right direction, he said.

"I'm sure there's going to be a lot of turnout for that. I hope 100 percent, especially after last season," Myers said. "Everyone's committed 100 percent. We expect that. If not, there'll be some talking to do to some guys."

Good to know the team hasn't given up on 2014. Rebuilding or not, doesn't mean we have to be losing. We're not playing the best of the best in 2014, our core group should be able to win quite a few games this season.

Winning is a habit & whatever new guys we bring in, I'd like for them to start picking up that habit right away.

 

[Playoffs]

Brian T. Smith ‏@ChronBrianSmith

No big message today for #Texans, Garrett Graham said. Just show up and go to work. Well-attended first day, though. #NFL

Tania Ganguli ‏@taniaganguli

Yates said the strength staff talked about adding MMA stuff on Thursdays. Weight room looks completely different. #Texans

Texans offseason program began today. QB TJ Yates said everybody showed up 15, 20 minutes early to the meeting. First day of school vibe.

 

[DX-TEX]

Yates said the strength staff talked about adding MMA stuff on Thursdays. Weight room looks completely different. #Texans

Well this poster is now hanging on the wall:

 

[Playoffs]

Texans kick off new workouts under new regime

Coaches are, however, allowed to conduct meetings and film sessions.

“It’s completely different,” Yates said. “Just as far as the weight room, it was completely different. There’s a 40-yard turf in the middle of the weight room, all the squat racks on the one side look like and Erector Set. There’s so many different things we can do and we haven’t even scratched the surface of all the stuff that we’re going to be doing.”
...
Fitzgerald is known for being a fiery, in-your-face-type of coach.

“That’s exactly what he is,” Yates said. “He’s a super high-energy guy and that’s what you need in a weight room staff. All of his assistants are the same way. Very good at encouraging, not putting you down type stuff, but stuff that gets you better. A lot of it today wasn’t that type of stuff but we’ve been working out the last couple of weeks. You can see the fire and the energy that he brings into his job and I think that’s going to carry over with all the guys.”

 

[CloakNNNdagger]

disregard

 

[Playoffs]

After completing phase one of their voluntary offseason conditioning program, the Texans are getting a week off for Easter while the front office prepares for the arrivals of multiple NFL Draft prospects.

Teams are allowed to bring in a maximum of 30 draft prospects. The Texans have the first overall pick in the draft that’s May 9-10.
...
Phase two of the offseason program begins on April 28. From that point through the rest of the program, coach Bill O’Brien and his staff can be on the field with the players.

http://blog.chron.com/ultimatetexan...ek-off-for-easter-watt-locked-up-through-2015

 

[ObsiWan]

Damn you Goodell. The draft ought to be NEXT F*%KIN' WEEKEND!!
Not THREE WEEKS from now.

 

[Playoffs]

First look at OB/troops in action...

A voluntary minicamp begins tomorrow for the Houston Texans, and we'll finally get access from the team to players. None of Houston's voluntary conditioning practices came with media access and so far most of our conversations with the Texans have come from charity events held by various players.

This three-day practice is a pre-draft camp the Texans are authorized to have because they have a new coaching staff. Tuesday and Wednesday's are open to the media, while Thursday's is not because of the draft.

http://m.espn.go.com/general/blogs/blogpost?blogname=houston-texans&id=5337&src=desktop

 

[Playoffs]

O'Brien had his first instances of mocking the media today:

Whoa, look at that shirt! Did it come with a dimmer? ...

Lobbying[for drack picks]? What is this, Washington D.C.?

Stephanie Stradley ‏@StephStradley

"Louder" "More energy." "Faster going from drill to drill." /Common comments from #Texans players

RB Arian Foster declined to talk today (nicely), LT Duane Brown said he looked good, great having him out there. /Looked fine to me.

Players declining to talk scheme specific stuff but describe things as "exciting," "detailed." LT Duane Brown is at 320, "feels great."

JJ Watt asked about contract, said, "I'm here to work." Nothing more really, just straightforward JJ talk.

If you have any questions about specific #Texans things today, I'll answer them if there's an answer. / Few answers to most things now.

Player went indoor bubble post practice for cooldown/stretch. Media waiting to talk to them outside. /Different than past. Stretched on field

Sizewise, no players stood out as looking significantly thinner/bigger to me. Official #Texans weights not on media sheet roster

I think Vrabel needs a jersey. /still in good shape //Linebacker group thin

Minor press differences for #Texans. Heard after veteran minicamp, OB won't talk to media immediately after practice. Players 1st then, OB indoors

Texans veteran camp notes: O'Brien seems more hands on w/ coaching. Loud music instead of manufactured noise. Foster was out there.

Tania Ganguli ‏@taniaganguli

Andre Johnson wasn't at minicamp today. O'Brien emphasizes it's voluntary, says "we just coach who shows up." #Texans

Mark Berman ‏@MarkBermanFox26

Bill O'Brien says it's importan to get on the field first w/veterans...

"When the rookies get here they just get in line, keep their mouths shut, and follow the lead"

Houston Texans ‏@HoustonTexans

"It's a great week for us. I've really enjoyed being a part of the draft process with Rick & his crew." -O'Brien #Texans

O'Brien on new year: "These guys are professional football players. We told them from day 1 that everything's different." #Texans

"I enjoy the group of guys. They come to work everyday, good camaraderie in the building." Coach O'Brien #Texans

Dave Zangaro ‏@DZangaro

I asked OB if it was nice to get away from the draft for a few hours. He said no, it's all about budgeting his time. #Texans

Bill O'Brian seemed pleased with the way the team's first day at voluntary minicamp. Said things went smoothly. #Texans

Jayson Braddock ‏@JaysonBraddock

Depending who the #Texans add at RB in the draft, the battle between Dennis Johnson vs Ray Graham will be fun to watch. Grimes added bulk.

DJ Swearinger looked more natural today in coverage. Like his college version. Eddie Pleasant is still a guy to watch. #Texans

Loved Kendrick Lewis ball skills and vert. Got a lot of "Atta boy K Lew" today.

Alex Lemon has truly grown as a pro. He may not make the #Texans squad, but he'll be someone's possession WR. Great hands, crisp routes

Trevardo Williams looked to have 1 percent body fat. His physique is rare. I just want to see him fight someone, now. #Texans

James Palmer ‏@JPalmerCSN

"From drill to drill and the guys understanding the tempo of things, for a first day I think we got off to a good start." #Texans Bill O'Brien

 

[Playoffs]

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houstontexans.com

 

[Playoffs]

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houstontexans.com

 

[Playoffs]

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houstontexans.com

 

[WolverineFan]

[IMGwidthsize=600]http://prod.images.texans.clubs.nflcdn.com/image-web/NFL/CDA/data/deployed/prod/TEXANS/assets/images/imported/HOU/photos/clubimages/2014/05-May/temp_DSC6415--nfl_mezz_1280_1024.JPG[/IMG]

Keenum looks like a high schooler next to Fitzpatrick.

 

[Playoffs]

Keenum looks like a high schooler next to Fitzpatrick.

[IMGwidthsize=600]http://prod.images.texans.clubs.nflcdn.com/image-web/NFL/CDA/data/deployed/prod/TEXANS/assets/images/imported/HOU/photos/clubimages/2014/05-May/temp_DSC6429--nfl_mezz_1280_1024.JPG[/IMG]

 

[Playoffs]

Fitzpatrick working to learn Texans’ new offense

Texans' first minicamp day under O’Brien


Texans’ Mini-Camp: Culture Shock

Voluntary Mini-Camp Day One

- It was Bill O’Brien‘s first day on the field with his new team and they hit the ground running. There was a hands on approach from O’Brien as he walked around to position groups and...

- Linebackers coach Mike Vrabel is a breath of fresh air and coached outside linebacker...

- Romeo Crennel is an interesting sight on the field. Full of smiles and shook hands with anyone and everyone he saw, but when practice started he was...

- All of the new free agents signed were at practice. Chris Clemons, Kendrick Lewis, Zach Potter, Paul Hazel, Ricardo Matthews, Ryan Fitzpatrick and Jerrell Powe were just an indication on how much has changed in less than a year.

- Injured rookies from the 2013 season Alan Bonner and David Quessenberry were a full practice today. Both looked focused early to make a difference, and Bonner picked up from last training camp. Bonner was catching everything in his vicinity and started the young football season with a quality day.

- New tight end Zach Potter comes in at 6-7 and 269 lbs. and he is a big target at the position. Right now working with Garrett Graham and Ryan Griffin, Potter will be an interesting to watch. He looks like an offensive tackle with his height, but his movement skills do not make him look too big for the tight end position.

- Newly acquired safety Kendrick Lewis was a plug and play in the secondary and instantly made calls and helped line up players. Lewis who played for Crennel in Kansas City, looks much healthier than he did at Kansas City last season and was moving with ease.

- It’s early but running back Arian Foster looked...

-Ryan Fitzpatrick, T.J. Yates and Case Keenum dove into the new offense under O’Brien. Quarterbacks coach George Godsey was...

-Andre Johnson was absent from the first day of minicamp, but there should be no real reason for concern for it.

- Side note: The Texans have changed the offense to blue practice tops and the defense to white. Also the quarterback are in red jerseys.
...

 

[thunderkyss]

I like the look of that.

 

[Thorn]

Every year it's the same old thing. I read a bunch of stuff in the media and Texans Talk and I get all pumped up for the draft, pre-season and the regular season. Every regular season I get my heart torn out like an Aztec sacrifice.

Do I learn anything from this? No. Because every pre-draft and pre-season I'm back here saying the same $hit I said last year about being all pumped up for the upcoming season.

And I AM all pumped up for the upcoming draft and season. LOL

 

[ObsiWan]

Every year it's the same old thing. I read a bunch of stuff in the media and Texans Talk and I get all pumped up for the draft, pre-season and the regular season. Every regular season I get my heart torn out like an Aztec sacrifice.

Do I learn anything from this? No. Because every pre-draft and pre-season I'm back here saying the same $hit I said last year about being all pumped up for the upcoming season.

And I AM all pumped up for the upcoming draft and season. LOL

Aaaah yes, that reminds me of the Christmases of my youth when I had dreams of a shiny new bicycle or a really expensive baseball glove or a full blown chemistry set (hey, I was a geek before there was a word for it, sue me) and I'd end up getting ugly sweaters and some socks or underwear.

 

[Bulls on Parade]

Every year it's the same old thing. I read a bunch of stuff in the media and Texans Talk and I get all pumped up for the draft, pre-season and the regular season. Every regular season I get my heart torn out like an Aztec sacrifice.

Do I learn anything from this? No. Because every pre-draft and pre-season I'm back here saying the same $hit I said last year about being all pumped up for the upcoming season.

And I AM all pumped up for the upcoming draft and season. LOL

I feel this year is different. The energy is much better and we have some important pieces like Arian Foster and Brian Cushing nearing a 100 % healthy return. Knocking on wood of course.

I also love the coaching we have. We have a promising head coach which is in tune with today's creative playcalling and can make adjustments on the fly, an outstanding defensive coordinator who once won three Super Bowls in four years doing that same job, the best defensive lines coach in the game and a new linebackers coach which has so much passion, knowledge that can help our linebackers become the best in the game if they play with his type of heart.

All and all, I'm not saying to buy your Super Bowl tickets just yet but there is certainly a reason to feel optimistic and excited about the Houston Texans right now. Depending on how our draft goes starting tomorrow night, I believe this team should aim for the playoffs this upcoming season.

 

[Playoffs]

Stephanie Stradley ‏@StephStradley

#Texans Bill O'Brien very positive about the use of analytics as a tool. Some for draft, says will be ramped up in season for gameplans

Tania Ganguli ‏@taniaganguli

O'Brien has reevaluated his assessment that the #Texans have no slot receiver, having gotten more time with the roster.

O'Brien spent some time post practice huddled with Rick Smith and Bob McNair. BOB said he meets with Rick daily. #Texans

Dave Zangaro ‏@DZangaro

O'Brien previously said he didn't see a slot WR on the team but said after a couple days sees some guys who have that ability. #Texans

O'Brien spoke very highly of Romeo Crennel. Remembered how tough it was to go against RAC's defenses when OB was in NE.

Dale Robertson ‏@sportywineguy

Bill O'Brien was very engaging after practice today. He's im a good mood.

Deepi Sidhu ‏@DeepSlant

O'Brien plays his iPod playlist, mix of rap, country, rock, during minicamp. Says it's to help players learn to communicate on the field.

Houston Texans ‏@HoustonTexans

O'Brien on tomorrow's practice & @nfl Draft: "It'll be a fun day. There has been a lot of preparation for both events." #Texans

"With all the QBs I've seen guys that are smart, really fun guys to coach. I can see improvement from meeting to meeting." -O'Brien #Texans

"To me, this is all about conditioning level, how they learn & how they compete out there." -O'Brien on vet minicamp #Texans

 

[rmartin65]

When is rookie camp? It is before OTA,right?

 

[Playoffs]

When is rookie camp?

Looks like Rookie Minicamp starts Friday, May 16.

 

[Playoffs]

James Palmer ‏@JPalmerCSN

Bill O'Brien said there are no restrictions during Texans rookie camp. Said they can work them morning/day/night. Evaluate them in every way

Deepi Sidhu @DeepSlant

Brooks Reed (on if he'll move inside): I've been preparing to move there for the past 3 years. #Texans

According to http://nflshop.com Clowney jersey sales were #3 on hottest-selling over weekend. Not surprisingly, Manziel, Sam at 1,2.

Rick Smith says the #Texans will continue to look for players to make competitive roster. Some of undrafted FAs added had draftable grades.

Rick Smith says NT Louis Nix was a 2nd-round grade. Decided to get aggressive, make trade with PHI for pick when available near late 3rd.

 

[BullNation4Life]

ok side note...

Would anybody be upset if O'Brien does what Denver did with their orange alt jersey and make the Battle Red jersey their home jersey?


[IMGwidthsize=600]http://prod.images.texans.clubs.nflcdn.com/image-web/NFL/CDA/data/deployed/prod/TEXANS/assets/images/imported/HOU/photos/clubimages/2014/05-May/temp_DSC6429--nfl_mezz_1280_1024.JPG[/IMG]

probably look too much like the Chiefs and Cards but it would be kinda cool...

 

[Playoffs]

Rookie Mini-Camp May 16-18

OTAs May 27-29, June 2, 3, 5, 9, 10, 12, 13

Mandatory Mini-Camp June 17-19

 

[Playoffs]

John McClain ‏@McClain_on_NFL

Texans start three day rookie minicamp today. They have 10 draft choices and 21 undrafted free agents.

 

[ObsiWan]

Any word on whether O'Brien will continue the tradition of holding fan-accessible training camp sessions?

 

[DX-TEX]

Tania Ganguli ‏@taniaganguli · 4m
Open locker room today for rookie camp. Rookies don't get real lockers until they make the roster. Not even the first overall pick. #Texans



Is this new?

 

[The Pencil Neck]

Tania Ganguli ‏@taniaganguli · 4m
Open locker room today for rookie camp. Rookies don't get real lockers until they make the roster. Not even the first overall pick. #Texans



Is this new?

Yes.

At least, I'm pretty sure it is.

 

[kiwitexansfan]

21 UDFA?

Is there a full accurate list anywhere?

 

[kiwitexansfan]

Does that 10 and 21 count tryouts?

Here is the latest list I put together.

Additions or subtractions?


Bryan Witzmann, OT, South Dakota State
Cory Henry, DE, FAU
Julius Warmsley, DT, Tulane
Nathan Slaughter, WR, West Texas A&M
Max Bullough, ILB, Michigan State
Anthony Denham, TE, Utah
Tyone Ezell, DT, Pittsburgh (TRYOUT)
Travis Labhart, WR, Texas A&M (Per David Nuño)
Chris Martin, OT, Central Florida
Chris Boswell, K, Rice
Chris McAllister, DE, Baylor
Matt Feiler, OT, Bloomsburg
Brendan Daly, LB, Hawaii, (TRYOUT)
Stan Grosz, DT, Cal Poly
Chris Young, LB, Arizona State
Wade Keliikipi, DT, Oregon (TRYOUT)
Austin Brown, DT, Miami (OH)
Jason Ankrah, DE, Nebraska
Nick Addison, S, Bethune-Cookman (TRYOUT)
Kjleby Oiland, C, Montana
Chris Coyle, TE, Arizona State
Marcus Williams, CB, North Dakota State
Terrance Lloyd, OLB, Baylor
Lacoltan Bester, WR, Oklahoma
Anthony McClung, WR, Cincinnati
Ian Thompson, TE, Lousiana-Lafayette (TRYOUT)
Kevin Forsch, OL, Houston
Josh Stewart, WR, Oklahoma
Theo Alexander, FS, Southeastern Louisianna

 

[ObsiWan]

Battle Red Blog sez 19 UDFAs; but this is dated 5/11/14. There may have been additions and/or subtractions since then.

LINK

Chris Boswell (K--Rice)
Kevin Forsch (OG--Houston)
Bryan Witzmann (OT--South Dakota State)
Chris Martin (OT--Central Florida)
Matt Feiler (OT--Bloomsburg)
Travis Labhart (WR--Texas A&M)
Anthony McClung (WR--Cincinnati)
Anthony Denham (TE--Utah)
Chris Coyle (TE--Arizona State)
Chris McAlister (LB--Baylor)
Terrance Lloyd (LB--Baylor)
Chris Young (LB--Arizona State)
Max Bullough (LB--Michigan State)
Jason Ankrah (LB--Nebraska)
Sullivan Grosz (DT--Cal Poly State)
Tyrone Ezell (DT--Pittsburgh)
Leon Minto (DT--Johnson C. Smith)
Austin Brown (DT--Miami (Ohio))
Marcus Williams (CB--North Dakota State)

 

[Playoffs]

Jayson Braddock ‏@JaysonBraddock

Houston #Texans will have joint practices with the Atlanta #Falcons & #Denver #Broncos the week of their preseason games.

 

[drs23]

Jayson Braddock ‏@JaysonBraddock
Quote:
Houston #Texans will have joint practices with the Atlanta #Falcons & #Denver #Broncos the week of their preseason games.

This is the first time we've done two joint practices, isn't it?

 

[DocBar]

Battle Red Blog sez 19 UDFAs; but this is dated 5/11/14. There may have been additions and/or subtractions since then.

LINK

Chris Boswell (K--Rice)
Kevin Forsch (OG--Houston)
Bryan Witzmann (OT--South Dakota State)
Chris Martin (OT--Central Florida)
Matt Feiler (OT--Bloomsburg)
Travis Labhart (WR--Texas A&M)
Anthony McClung (WR--Cincinnati)
Anthony Denham (TE--Utah)
Chris Coyle (TE--Arizona State)
Chris McAlister (LB--Baylor)
Terrance Lloyd (LB--Baylor)
Chris Young (LB--Arizona State)
Max Bullough (LB--Michigan State)
Jason Ankrah (LB--Nebraska)
Sullivan Grosz (DT--Cal Poly State)
Tyrone Ezell (DT--Pittsburgh)
Leon Minto (DT--Johnson C. Smith)
Austin Brown (DT--Miami (Ohio))
Marcus Williams (CB--North Dakota State)

This has to be a team record for "Chris"'s in one season. I don't see the correlation to NE or Penn St., but I'm sure it's there.

 

[Playoffs]

This is the first time we've done two joint practices, isn't it?

I don't recall another, but I forget my own name sometimes so...

 

[Grams]

I believe we have done joint practices before with the Broncos, Saints? But is was a few years ago.

 

[drs23]

I believe we have done joint practices before with the Broncos, Saints? But is was a few years ago.

Saints two years running I recall.

 

[The Pencil Neck]

We've had joint practices with a few other teams in the past but... this is the first time I recall having two in the same year.

 

[76Texan]

We've had joint practices with a few other teams in the past but... this is the first time I recall having two in the same year.

Actually, the Texans and the Saints had joint practices for 3 years in a row from 2008-10.
Peyton and Kubiak called of the would - have been fourth in 2011 due to the lockout.