A cast-less J.J. Watt is a very effective Watt.
"It felt great," Watt said after the game. "It took a couple of big hits. It bounced back well. I don't think it was a problem so, yeah it's great."
In the 30-6 win over Jacksonville, Watt finished with eight tackles, including five solo and three for a loss, three sacks, four quarterback hits, two passes defensed, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Watt ends his 2015 regular season with 17.5 sacks on the year.
The three-time All-Pro defensive end started Sunday's game against Jacksonville with a padded glove and not the cast that has covered his hand for the previous three games.
Watt, who broke a bone in his left hand on Dec. 9., practiced on Friday for the first time without the cast. Not having the club helps Watt have used of his fingers in the game. During the Jaguars opening possession, Watt picked up his first sack on Blake Bortles on third down.
Watt has worn the protective cast for the last three games against New England, Indianapolis, and Tennessee. Watt has not missed any games since the injury and currently holds a streak with 80 consecutive starts.
The Texans got set for their Week 17 matchup with the Jaguars at NRG Stadium.
