Lovie Smith updates Derek Stingley Jr.'s availability ahead of Week 1

Derek Stingley Jr. is working his way back from a foot injury and the No. 3 overall pick in the NFL Draft is on schedule to be available for the Houston Texans for Week 1.

Texans CB Steven Nelson said Stingley Jr., is impressive, and noted an interception he made Thursday before Friday’s first open training camp practice. Stingley is working his way back from a Lisfranc injury, but also multiple injuries that kept him off the field off and on since his freshman season in 2019.

It was that season when Stingley had 6 interceptions and broke up 15 passes in 2019 to earn All-America honors, but played just 10 games in the last 2 seasons because of injuries. He played just 3 games last season before he had foot surgery.

Lovie Smith said Derek Stingley Jr, on schedule for first game, doing well. They are increasing his workload at practice, according to their plan

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) July 29, 2022

#Texans‘ Nick Caserio says Derek
Stingley has done a lot of stuff. His testing measursments are better than some on the team. They’re just reacclimating him to the routine of football.

— Mark Lane (@therealmarklane) July 29, 2022

#Texans HC Lovie Smith on the ramp up period for rookie CB Derek Stingley & if he’ll be ready for week 1 (Answer is yes) @SportsTalk790 pic.twitter.com/KByA8jKKDC

— Adam Wexler (@AdamJWexler) July 29, 2022

3rd overall pick Derek Stingley Jr. fielding kicks during special teams period #TexansCamp pic.twitter.com/5isODtFIyn

— Daniel Gotera (@DTGoteraKHOU) July 29, 2022