Standouts on defense

For all the talk about how the Texans' offense should look this season, it was the defense that stood out on the first day of mandatory minicamp.

Whether it was Derek Stingley Jr. breaking up a Stroud pass to Diggs or C.J. Henderson picking off Davis Mills in 7-on-7 drills, the defense got the better of things in a practice that typically favors offensive players.

“Sheesh,” running back Joe Mixon said when asked about the defense. “I ain’t gonna lie. Them guys over there — I’m glad I’m on their team. It’s a lot of young, hungry guys out there flying around. They all run real fast, and they are physical.”

The two best defensive plays were interceptions. Henderson was guarding wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson, who was running a go route. Mills slightly underthrew the ball, and Henderson read it the entire way, getting in perfect position for the pick.

Henderson is battling Jeff Okudah and Kamari Lassiter for a starting outside cornerback spot opposite Stingley.

Lassiter, who was selected No. 42 overall in the second round of this year’s draft, also had a great day. He had two pass deflections and guarded Tank Dell well in 7-on-7 drills.

It would be a surprise if Lassiter didn’t emerge as a starter, either at nickel or outside cornerback, considering the way he’s played recently. He’s definitely a favorite heading into training camp.

The final interception came in team drills at the end of practice. Newly signed linebacker Jacob Phillips stepped in front of a Mills pass and returned it for a pick six.

Side note: Nico, Diggs, Tank, Schultz are looking great but John Metchie is turning a lot of heads and looking explosive. Reports coming out of minicamp are saying he's is looking miles ahead of how he did last season, explosive and consistently beating his coverage.

Stroud: "He’s running some of the best routes I’ve ever seen. His lateral quickness, being able to stop and start. He’s making plays. He’s showing up and showing out."