J.J. Watt to miss training camp, preseason after back surgery

HOUSTON -- A person familiar with J.J. Watt's condition said the Houston Texans' star defensive end has had back surgery and will begin training camp on the physically unable to perform list.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on Thursday night on condition of anonymity because the team hasn't confirmed the surgery or Watts' roster status.

Watt, the NFL sacks leader last season with 17 1/2, will miss the start of training camp, but is expected to be ready for the season opener.

Watt spent most of the offseason recovering after having surgery to repair a groin injury in January.

His performance last season helped the Texans to their first playoff berth since 2012 and gave him his second straight Defensive Player of the Year Award.

The surgery was first reported by ESPN.