The Texans made more headlines in free agency based on who they let go, notably Mario Williams, rather than who they signed. However, a couple of free-agent signings have made positive impressions for Houston in the first week of training camp.
LB Bradie James: James was signed on April 12. He was brought in to help fill the void left at inside linebacker when the team traded DeMeco Ryans to the Eagles for a fourth-round pick. James played under defensive coordinator Wade Phillips in Dallas, and so far in camp, he has done exactly what he was brought in to do.
“It’s his leadership skills, his experience and how long he’s been in this League,” linebackers coach Reggie Herring told reporters earlier this week. “He knows our package inside and out.”
“He’s like a coach on the field. We’re very excited. How much does he have left in his body? That remains to be seen, but as far as leadership, knowing this defense, getting them lined up, executing coverages and helping [Brian] Cushing out with coverages, he’s got it.”
RB Justin Forsett: Forsett was signed June 4, and he is expected to contribute on special teams and provide depth behind Arian Foster and Ben Tate. Forsett, who was with the Seahawks from 2008 through last season, has had a good first week of training camp, impressing teammates and coaches with both his play and professionalism.
“First off, he understands what we’re doing,” coach Gary Kubiak told reporters. “He kind of understands our system a little bit from [former Texans quarterbacks coach Greg Knapp] in Seattle. That’s been easy for him. He’s a well-conditioned guy who can do a little bit of everything. He catches the ball well and he should play special teams, so he has an excellent chance to help our team.”
Follow Texans blogger Sean Bielawski on Twitter, @CBSSportsNFLHOU.
