Watt makes full return to Texans practice

The Houston Texans defense was able to keep things together largely without the services of J.J. Watt last season, but they are certainly happy to have the star defensive end back on the field.

After missing 13 games in 2016 with a back injury, Watt made a full return to Texans practice Tuesday.

"This is my natural habitat," Watt said, according to his team. "I feel good being back out there."

Watt tried to push through back problems after undergoing surgery last summer, which contributed to the re-aggravation that forced him out of the Texans' lineup. He expects to be more careful in this year's recovery process.

"I think the slow pace applies a little more to the weight room than it does to the field," Watt told the Houston Chronicle's John McClain. "I don't like to play slow. The best part is just being back out here with my teammates. It's so much fun to be in the meetings, to be on the field and be back with the guys.

"I feel great. I'm sure we'll have some sort of program where I take a day off here and there, but as far as when I'm allowed to be on the field, I feel awesome."