Texans' Coach Jacques Cesaire Raves About DL Jonathan Greenard at OTAs
HOUSTON — Year four is vital for Houston Texans' defensive lineman Jonathan Greenard. The 2023 season marks a contract year for Greenard, whose future with the Texans remains uncertain.
Greenard said he wasn't worried about an extension at the end of last season. His top objective when preparing for the upcoming year was to enhance his on-field production in hopes of helping the Texans win more games.
Houston is still months away from holding padded practices. But defensive line coach Jacques Cesaire has already seen improvements with Greenard's play and leadership through the first two weeks of OTA practices.
"He has done a great job improving his rush," Cesaire said. "We have pinpointed how he can develop his rush. And every day, he has been working on it.
"The biggest thing I love most about J.G. is his leadership. He has showcased his leadership in the classroom and out on the field. He has really helped out the young guys. It has been really encouraging."
A calf injury limited Greenard to eight games in 2022, which derailed what could have been a breakout season. He recorded 33 tackles and 8.0 sacks during his sophomore season. But amid Greenard's third year, his numbers declined to 16 tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Following the Texans' season finale victory over the Indianapolis Colts, Greenard cited health as a significant point of emphasis entering the off-season.
Nearly five months later, Cesaire expressed Greenard had done a great job of transforming his body since January — which could help the 26-year-old defensive lineman reach his goal of playing all 17 games.
Greenard has always been passionate about his health and helping the Texans turn their franchise around since his arrival as a rookie prospect out of The University of Florida during the 2020 NFL Draft.
The Texans have always been fond of Greenard. And a successful 2023 campaign could lead to an extension before Greenard enters the spring of 2024.
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