Andre Johnson did something he usually doesn't have to do on Wednesdays.
He practiced.
Usually, veterans get a rest day on Wednesday during the latter weeks of the season, but Johnson wanted to get back on the field after missing last week's practice with a concussion. With a new quarterback starting Sunday, Case Keenum or Thad Lewis, Johnson was ready to get back to work for the Texans upcoming game against Baltimore.
"He's a great leader," O'Brien said of Johnson. "He was out there today practicing. Usually, I give him Wednesday off but he wanted to go today to catch some passes from Case and Thad. He's one of those guys I have ultimate respect for."
Johnson was still limited in Wednesday's practice after clearing the NFL's concussion protocol this week but was feeling better and optimistic about returning the starting lineup against the Ravens. The two-time All-Pro receiver was inactive for Sunday's 17-10 loss to the Colts after taking a helmet-to-helmet hit in Week 14 in Jacksonville.
"He's been a good leader, a good locker room guy the whole year, really with the example that he sets day in and day out," O'Brien said.
The (7-7) Texans host the (9-5) Ravens in Week 16 at NRG Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m. on CBS KHOU-11 and SportsRadio 610.
