Most impactful NFL training camp injuries so far

The Houston Texans shocked many in 2015 by winning the AFC South behind their stellar defensive football team. That being said, Houston has had a distraction filled 2016 offseason that may come back to bite them this fall.

The Brock Osweiler signing in free agency was odd. Star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins threatened to hold out. General manager Rick Smith got paid despite consistently questionable front office decisions over the years. Most importantly, the Texans’ best player in All-Pro defensive end J.J. Watt will miss certainly the entire preseason after having to undergo back surgery.

Watt hurt himself in late July working out on his own accord. The gym rat pass rusher is one of the most impactful players on the defensive side of the ball, so no doubt that the Texans will feel his loss this preseason. Will players like Jadeveon Clowney step up in Watt’s extended absence? We’ll see.

Yes, back surgery isn’t a good thing to hear about a pass rusher who seeks contact on every defensive snap. That being said, Houston should still be strong defensively without Watt at full strength. Even if he’s not at 100 percent for Week 1, say 85% of Watt is still better than what most teams have to offer in the front seven. Houston might start slow in 2016, but their slow start last year didn’t seem to hold them back from winning a weak division and host an AFC Playoff game.

Next: 4. William Jackson.