Texans players react to Gary Kubiak’s practice visit

Aug 17, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans head coach Gary Kubiak reacts during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Texans got a bit of a surprise during their Thursday practice when head coach Gary Kubiak made a visit. Kubiak is currently recovering from a mini-stroke that occurred last Sunday.

It is good to see Kubiak is able to get out of his home and attend a practice, but he’s not going to be able to coach this week against the Arizona Cardinals. Kubiak will not travel with the team to Arizona for their game with the Cardinals this Sunday.

Here are some of the reactions the Texans had Thursday with quotes provided by transcripts from the Texans’ Official site.

Interim head coach Wade Phillips:

"“The highlight of the practice today was Coach Kub (Gary Kubiak) was there at the end of practice. Obviously, he talked to the players a little bit. Everybody was excited to see him. He looks pretty good. So that was really the highlight.”"

Phillips on Kubiak’s message to the team:

"“Mostly that he missed them and how much he missed (being here). You don’t realize until you’re away from it a little bit how much you miss the team and being around them, and that kind of thing. And that he felt good. That was his message.”"

Duane Brown:

"“It was great. It was great. He came out there during the last period of practice. Some of us saw him from the sidelines. It just lifted our spirits to see him up walking about. That meant the world to us. He just thanked everyone for our support and kind words and prayers. He told us how much he missed being out there.”"