Texans DT Johnson Has Surgery

Houston Texans defensive tackle Travis Johnson said Tuesday in an interview with FOX 26 Sports he underwent successful surgery for a sports hernia three weeks ago in St. Louis.

Johnson said he has been bothered the past couple of years by an assortment of injuries related to the sports hernia and is hopeful the procedure will erase those problems and increase his productivity.

"I just had sports hernia surgery on the right side," said Johnson. "It feels good. I finally got a lot of this pain out of my mid-section.

"Just trying to hurry up and get back so I can help the team out and be super-productive. This is an important year for the whole franchise."

Johnson could be placed on the physically unable to perform (pup) list if he has not fully recovered from the surgery when training camp opens in ten days.

Regardless, the successful procedure has given the Texans former number one draft pick a new lease on life.

"It's been a big burden," Johnson said. "I had to get a lot of stuff done to it as far as shots just to be able to get out of the bed every morning.

"Now that we finally got some answers, as far as what's going on and got it somewhat fixed I think, that's a great thing."

Johnson said his condition contributed to his inability to stay healthy.

"My body started breaking down with the hamstrings and the groins," Johnson said. "Everything was over-compensating for the fact that I had a hernia.

"It just took its toll on my body. I went to go see a specialist in St. Louis and that's what it came out to be."

In 2008 Johnson played in 15 games, starting 14. He recorded 22 solo tackles with six assists. He had one quarterback sack and one forced fumble.