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Texans nearing full strength with returns of J.J. Watt, Derek Newton

Texans defensive end J.J. Watt and offensive tackle Derek Newton returned to practice Monday and will play in Sunday's first regular-season game against the Chicago Bears.

Coach Bill O'Brien had his players in full pads for the first day of preparation for the Bears' game at NRG Stadium.

Watt had been out since July 19 after undergoing surgery to repair a herniated disk in his back. Newton was out since the first day of camp with a severe hamstring injury.

"Both of those guys were working hard," O'Brien said after practice. "It's always good to have your team as close to full strength as possible.