Will Anderson Jr. doesn’t need a medical report to confirm what he already knows. The Houston Texans’ second-year defensive end is back at practice for the first time in over a month.
He’s back for Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts, too.
“Of course, of course, of course,” Anderson assured reporters when asked if he planned to play at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Anderson, who had been dealing with an ankle injury, was a full participant in practice. His name didn’t appear on the injury report, meaning he’s medically cleared to go full speed through drills.
As a roster, only defensive back M.J. Stewart remains absent from practice in any capacity. It’s a sign that Houston should be about at 99.9 percent full strength when the team takes on their AFC South foe.
“Excited about all our guys out there available working,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. “Excited about the work that we put in today.”
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Anderson’s impact differs from most. The reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year is a staple of a potent Houston pass rush that looks to improve after totaling a franchise-record 46 sacks in 2023.
Anderson, who led all rookies in pressures (64) and quarterback hits (22), was responsible for seven sacks, though that number could have been higher if he hadn’t missed two games. The Texans are expecting a breakout season from their J.J. Watt heir-apparent entering Year 2 opposite of four-time Pro Bowl defensive end Danielle Hunter.
When at its peak, Ryans believes the duo has an opportunity to consistently “wreak havoc” on Sundays.
“In any passing situations, their ability to disrupt the pocket, disrupt the quarterback, that’s what excites me. If we want to play really good on defense when they’re passing the football, those two guys have to impact the game for us. If they show up and impact the game, it’ll be easier for our guys on the back end.”
Anderson would tend to agree with the second-year coach and fellow Alabama graduate.
“That’s why (Danielle’s) here. That’s why I’m here,” Anderson said. “I know he’s going to wreak havoc. He’s going to do his thing. I’m gonna have his back, and I’m gonna go out there and do the same thing.”
Kickoff is scheduled for noon CT.