Texans star defensive end J.J. Watt was given a day off from practice Thursday, according to coach Bill O'Brien.
Watt was in shorts while his teammates were in full pads during the portion open to reporters.
Watt participated fully Wednesday despite a broken finger.
The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year has no sacks in the first three games since undergoing a pair of back surgeries last season.
Watt leads the Texans with four quarterback hurries and has drawn double-team blocking attention from opponents.