Without warning

Texans scrap first workout of last scheduled two-a-day

HOUSTON (AP) -- Without a public explanation, the Texans scrapped a scheduled practice session Monday morning on the second-to-last day of training camp and players attended meetings with coaches at Reliant Stadium instead.

Monday was the last of the team's scheduled two-a-day practices, though the Texans were to hit the field for the evening workout. They will break camp Tuesday after one midday practice, meaning players will get to check out of an area hotel and begin commuting to the stadium practice facility from home.

With projected regulars expected to get more practice time this week in preparation for Saturday's third exhibition game against San Diego, losing the workout session meant players battling for a roster spot had one fewer chance to impress coaches.

"This is going to be a week where we will play our starters the most of any of the preseason games," Capers said Sunday. "Well look forward to seeing what kind of improvement we can make this week in the Chargers game."

Improvement will be the byword this week after an embarrassing 34-6 loss at Dallas last Friday in which the Texans were outplayed in every phase of the game. Houston players often seemed a step slower on some plays, which could explain Capers' decision to cancel practice Monday morning after a hot and humid Sunday afternoon workout.

"We're capable of far better than what we showed Friday night," Capers said. "After looking at the tape, you can see the pieces are there. We just haven't put it all together in terms of being able to go out and put together a consistent performance."

The Texans have another week of practices, along with the Chargers game, to evaluate talent before the first round of cuts is required by next Tuesday. Of the 53 regular-season roster spots, about 40 places appear set barring further injuries or surprise releases or acquisitions, and most of the competition is for reserves, who will serve on special teams.

Capers also was expected to know more about his injury situation Monday. He doesn't expect Pro Bowl defensive lineman Gary Walker's sprained left shoulder to keep him out of the regular season opener at Miami, though fullback Jarrod Baxter could miss the season with a left foot injury.

 

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