J.J. Watt leaning on Vince Wilfork to become better leader

HOUSTON -- J.J. Watt likes to make the most of the chance he has to play with someone who has had as much experience and success as Vince Wilfork.

"He's seen championship teams, he's been around great players, great leaders," Watt said. "Obviously myself being a leader I'm always trying to be the best leader I can be, so I go to him and [ask], 'What made your championship teams great? How did you guys get to where you were?' Then I just let him speak and listen to what he has to say. Let him talk about my leadership style, what he thinks I can do better."

Wilfork has been with the Texans only a short time since signing with the organization during free agency this year. He spent the first 11 years of his NFL career with the New England Patriots, winning Super Bowl rings in his first and last years with the organization. Even in this short a time in Texas, there is mutual admiration.

"Just to be with him every day to see exactly what he puts in, because a lot of guys don't put a lot of work in the game," Wilfork said. "They just get to a certain level and they get complacent. They're just happy with where they're at. To see him work every day, he's going to be a great player for a long time and it all starts with the way he works. He makes me work harder."

There is a goofy side to their relationship. Watt called Wilfork "jolly" and said they talk about barbecue and horse racing. They played catch during a stretching session at organized team activities, and both were caught dancing to a song played during one recent practice.

On the field, though, intensity and seriousness take over.

Watt tried for more morsels of advice during Wednesday's practice, the second of the Texans' mandatory minicamp.

"He said, 'Listen, just keep doing what you're doing,' " Watt said. "I'm going to just keep doing what I'm doing. Keep working hard. Lead by example. Be vocal when I feel like I need to be vocal. For the most part, I don't think there's ever any better leadership style than going out there and working as hard as you possibly can and setting an example for us to follow."