Those who have watched the Houston Texans play this season have probably noticed that Deshaun Watson has not been making the same big plays that he did last year. That’s probably because in addition to recovering from surgery to repair a torn ACL, Watson is currently playing hurt.
Texans head coach Bill O’Brien acknowledged after the team’s 20-7 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday that Watson is playing hurt.
Bill O'Brien on Deshaun Watson 'He is playing hurt'
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) October 21, 2018
Watson has been listed on the injury report with a chest injury. FOX’s Jay Glazer reported last week that Watson was dealing with a bruised lung, cracked rib, and partially collapsed lung.
Glazer then reported on Sunday that Watson traveled to Jacksonville by bus because of concerns the team had about air pressure and circulation had he flown in his condition.
The Texans, concerned about the effect air pressure could have on Deshaun Watson’s bruised lung and injured ribs, sent Watson to Jacksonville via bus — a 12-hour ride — instead of taking flight w team. Amazing what Watson has been playing through @NFLonFOX
— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) October 21, 2018
O’Brien declined to discuss the bus trip after the game, but Watson confirmed it happened.
Watson was 12/24 for 139 yards, a touchdown and no interceptions. The Texans kept his number of pass attempts limited for the second week in a row after he attempted at least 32 passes in every prior game this season.
