A year ago, Texans veteran offensive tackle Duane Brown was living a painful existence in the wake of suffering a devastating leg injury that had to be repaired surgically.
Because of a ruptured quadriceps tendon above his right knee, the three-time Pro Bowl blocker was unable to participate in offseason practices before last season. It wasn't entirely solitary work rehabilitating his leg and enduring the painful steps of regaining strength and stability, but Brown was unable to participate in offseason practices. Accustomed to being the leader of the Texans' line through his actions on the field, Brown had to be a bystander at times and encourage with his words.