Houston Texans fans arrive before sunrise for training camp Tuesday; rookie Kamari Lassiter and running back Dameon Pierce stand out

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Houston Texans fans showed up well before sunrise Tuesday for their first chance to watch training camp.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans and his players enjoyed the energy boost from the first day with full protection.

“When you come across the bridge and see all the fans out there and their excitement for our guys, it really motivates everybody,” Ryans said.

Legendary Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson also came to the workout. The Pro Football Hall of Fame will induct Johnson in Canton, Ohio, on Aug. 3.

SEE MORE: Houston Texans open 8 workouts to fans for free during 2024 preseason

The Texans worked quickly in a practice that lasted about an hour and a half. Ryans continued to emphasize measured preparation for the long season ahead with rest days scheduled for players like Nico Collins and John Metchie.

“We always train safely and make sure everyone stays in shape,” Ryans said. “For the most part, that’s what we did (Tuesday).”

Eyewitness Sports noticed two notable players on the field: cornerback Kamari Lassiter and running back Dameon Pierce.

SEE MORE: CJ Stroud sees ‘five-headed monster’ in Texans’ offensive skill group

Lassiter, the second-round pick out of Georgia, has impressed veteran teammates with his talent and work ethic, but he said he knows he has “a long way to go.”

“You have to prove yourself and earn the respect of your teammates and your coaches,” Lassiter told ABC13.

After a tough 2023 season, Pierce worked on his body and attitude.

“I learned a lot from my tough times last year,” Pierce said, displaying renewed energy in practice. “The more I can be myself, the better it looks on video.”

The three-year veteran added that “the sky is the limit” if the Texans’ offense can develop a consistent rushing attack to complement C.J. Stroud and the wide receiver talent.

SEE ALSO: Texans 2024 schedule: Houston-Dallas clash earns late-season spot on ‘Monday Night Football’

For more on this story, follow Greg Bailey on Facebook, X and Instagram.