An after-action review (AAR) is a project review exercise that occurs after the “action” has already happened. It is a process that is used in the Army to evaluate combat missions once soldiers return to base.

Throughout Texans training camp, I will conduct an AAR on what that I observed for that day. The sole purpose is to be the eyes and ears for fans who are not in attendance that want to know how the Texans are looking heading towards the 2021 season.

1. Watson Sighting

In an unexpected plot twist unbeknownst to all media that was in attendance, three-time Pro Bowler and franchise quarterback Deshaun Watson took the field in a limited capacity on Wednesday. The disgruntled quarterback participated in quarterback drills but not in the scrimmages against the defense. He looked very comfortable during the drills with the ball in his hands but was not in his usual jovial mood as seen in previous camps.

1. Nico Collins May Be Better Than Advertised

The 6’4 wide receiver out of the University of Michigan who the Houston Texans selected with the 26th pick of the 2021 NFL Draft looks like he has the tools to start opposite of Brandin Cooks when the Texans opens the season. Collins was crisp getting in and out of routes as he took reps with the first and second team offense throughout practice. He received high praises from Cooks during his press conference after practice who made mention of how hard he works and how much he pays attention to detail.

1. Justin Reid Is A Natural Born Leader

Sometimes you can look at a person and tell they are built to handle every situation and that will be exactly what the Texan have in safety Justin Reid. As he took the field to begin his fourth training camp, his veteran presence showed as he interacted with a lot of old and new faces on both sides of the ball. His voice was the loudest on defense during the 11-on-11 drills against the first team offense as he made led a lot of effective pass break ups.

1. Crowded Space

Outside of the wide receiver position, the Texans have a plethora of running backs who are all competing for one spot. Last year’s starter David Johnson who rushed for 691 yards last season came into camp in great shape. The off-season acquisition of former Denver Broncos running back Phillip Lindsay may have caused Johnson to put in some extra work during his training. Lindsay had some very explosive runs during the first day of training camp and showed that extra gear he had when he started for the Broncos.