"The ball arrived on time, and the route was precise.

On most days at Methodist Training Center, such a sequence is routine and forgettable, but it was memorable Monday.

Under the watchful eyes of Texans owner Bob McNair and Gary Kubiak – both of whom stood at midfield – freshly anointed starting quarterback Matt Leinart uncorked a tight spiral in route to Andre Johnson, who plucked the ball out of the air and turned upfield all in one motion.

"No. 80 is back!" shouted running back Arian Foster.

Johnson rejoined his teammates Monday, back at full speed after whatwill likely amount to a six-game layoff from a hamstring injury incurred Oct. 2 against Pittsburgh. The All-Pro wide receiver is expected to start Sunday in Jacksonville.

"Andre was fine," Kubiak said. "He took all his reps with the team. We will monitor his reps in practice and probably going into the game, but all systems should be go this weekend.""