Rosevelt Colvin was with the Texans only one day when he started getting special veteran treatment. The coaches rested him during the morning practice on Day 2, and said they plan to alternate the days he and N.D. Kalu practice.
Colvin is OK with that schedule as he enters his 10th year in the NFL. But the former linebacker also knows he has a lot of work to do since he is moving to defensive end full-time for the first time in his career.
During his few early practices, Colvin hardly looked out of place though. And that's how he wants to keep it.
"Hopefully I can fit in as best I can," Colvin said. "I won't be the guy that's the bump in the road but just follow along and get it done."
When the Texans signed Colvin toward the end of June, they were looking for one more speedy, situational pass rusher to play opposite of Mario Williams. His arrival for the first day of training camp officially completed the team's puzzle on the defensive line.
Now, the Texans will wait to see how the unit develops and meshes over the next three weeks of two-a-day practices and countless meetings.
"I think we have a lot more speed throughout the team, but I think you're going to see it there (on the defensive line)," owner Bob McNair said. "We've got a little more help for Mario and I think Mario had a terrific year last year, and I think he'll have an even better year this year. And with Rosevelt over there helping out and giving us a little more speed rush, I think that will make a big difference."
Colvin likely will play opposite of Williams in most passing situations. The coaches are monitoring him closely because of injuries that have bothered him in the past and out of concern that they use him the right way.
Colvin isn't a typical defensive end. The 6-foot-3, 250-pounder is four inches smaller and at least 40 pounds lighter than Williams. But Colvin has proven throughout his career what he can add as a pass rusher.
"I know he's a pro," coach Gary Kubiak said. "He's been very successful in this business. It should be an easy adjustment as far as knowing what we're doing. We'll have to see how he fits in what we're doing and how we're using him. We have to be smart. He's not a big enough guy, end-wise, to play down in and down out. We'll have to pick our spots so I think it's up to us coaches to find his niche."
CAMP CALENDAR: Camp closes Aug. 17. The Texans will leave for New Orleans Aug. 12 and practice against the Saints two days leading up their Saturday night preseason matchup.
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