HOUSTON – When the Texans launch their annual training camp, summer practices won’t be an uninterrupted series of competitions within the defending AFC South champions’ roster.
The Texans have scheduled a pair of joint practices with the Carolina Panthers and the Detroit Lions.
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The Texans will host the Panthers and coach Dave Canales in Houston in advance of an Aug. 16 preseason game. They’ll travel to practice with the Lions, coached by Dan Campbell, for one day of workouts prior to an Aug. 23 preseason game
“Excited to work against those teams, you get different defensive looks from both teams. Different offensive looks and you get to do it in a competitive environment where you’re not live on the quarterback. It’s the safest way and I feel like we can get really good work for our starters against other teams. I’m excited to go against the Panthers, excited to go against the Lions.
“Two head coaches, who I respect a lot Dave has done a great job there, so I’m excited to see him. I think they’re on the rise and has done a really good job with what he has had so far, so I’m excited to see that team come in.
The Texans held a joint session with the Los Angeles Rams last year with coach Sean McVay.
During Ryans’ first season as head coach of the defending AFC South champions, the Texans had a joint practice with the Miami Dolphins and his former San Francisco 49ers colleague Mike McDaniel.
The Texans lost to the Lions last season despite intercepting quarterback Jared Goff five times.
“We know what the Lions are about,” Ryans said. “Coach Campbell and his energy and spirit as a head coach it’s just second to none. I’m excited to work with both guys and I think we can gain a lot out of both practices.”
Aaron Wilson is a Texans and NFL reporter for KPRC 2 and click2houston.com
