Watt, Clowney held out of Wednesday's Texans practice

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- If news surrounding the Houston Texans wasn't bad enough, there was more on Wednesday. Two defensive stars were held out of practice.

Two-time NFL defensive player of the year JJ Watt missed the day with a back injury. Texans Coach Bill O'Brien called it minor and Watt says he does expect to play Sunday against Tennessee. And Jadeveon Clowney was also out, suffering from what O'Brien called a 24-hour bug.

At his Wednesday press conference, O'Brien also spoke about the media reports that he and general manager Rick Smith didn't see eye to eye on the release of backup QB Ryan Mallett.

"Rick Smith and I both have respect for each other. We work together every day. We communicate every day," said O'Brien. "It's a partnership. Decisions are made by two of us and obviously they require the concurrence of the owner, Bob McNair. When it comes to personnel and coaching and playing and all those things, it's a partnership."

The Texans (2-5) are back at NRG Stadium this Sunday to host the Tennessee Titans (1-5).