As the Houston Texans prepare for rookie minicamp this weekend, the only thing the fans and the media will get to see are the rookies in their projected numbers for the season doing walk-throughs and some small drills.

For some, that will be a waste of time, but for the optimistic, enthusiastic Texans fan, it means that help is on the way.

General manager Nick Caserio and head coach Lovie Smith had what most draft experts consider one of the best drafts in franchise history, filling the holes on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. They addressed the needs, hopefully providing a better ending than the 4-13 season they experienced in 2021.

“Well, it’s not going to be a training camp practice or anything like that,” said coach Smith Monday before the Texans’ annual golf charity event. “First, it’s orientation of how we do things. It’s not like we’re going to be out there three hours. As much as anything, what we’re trying to get accomplished with our minicamp is to let them know how we do things, drills, and just daily schedule. It’s more of that for them to be able to blend in Monday with our veterans. But you have to get that first day on the football field in, so we’ll get that, see where they are.”

When he spoke to the media, Caserio echoed his head coach’s sentiments about rookie expectations.

“I think to try and determine what role a rookie is going to play when they walk in the building is ridiculous because they haven’t been here,” said Caserio. “We just have to start from square one which is come in the building, actually learn the people that are in the building that are going to help you become a better pro and a better player. The focus is on work, getting better, and learning our program.”

The excitement will be focused on two former All-Americans who spent their Saturdays playing in the best conference in college football (SEC) defensive back Derek Stingley Jr. and offensive lineman Kenyon Green. Yet there are a couple more picks looking to make an immediate impact in safety Jalen Pitre, wide receiver John Metchie III and running back Dameon Pierce.

The Texans rookie minicamp will be held from May 13-15 at the Methodist Training Center practice facility.