Colin Kaepernick spotted working out in Houston, reports say

HOUSTON – The Texans, like every other NFL team, wasted little time in inking a new group of free agents in hopes of improving the team.

One position in need of help is quarterback. Deshaun Watson, still rehabbing an ACL injury, and Taylor Heinicke are the only signal-callers on the roster.

WATCH: Colin Kaepernick spotted working out in Houston

Free-agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick hasn't played in the NFL since the 2016 NFL season, but maintains he has not given up on playing in the league. Kaepernick gained notoriety for his willingness to kneel during the national anthem to protest oppression of people of color in the United States and the ongoing issues with police brutality.

Kaepernick remained unsigned for the duration of the 2017 season.

Kaepernick was spotted working out in Houston on Thursday, according to a Yahoo! Sports report Thursday. He went through drills typical of a quarterback workout, either preparing for a tryout, a private workout, or merely to stay sharp.

There was no indication this workout was attended by any NFL teams, including the Texans, who according to Yahoo!’s Charles Robinson were not even aware of the workout.

The Texans did acknowledge that owner Bob McNair was deposed in Houston on Friday in the collusion case against the NFL. Kaepernick was present for the deposition.

Still, some Houstonians weighed in on the thought of Kaepernick joining the Texans.

"We need players that are better and that will take a stand for what they believe," said Ben Enghart, a football fan. "So I fully support him taking the knee and would welcome him to the Texans."

But not everyone is a fan of Kaepernick's national protest. Texans fan Kevin Lyons said the free agent should just stick to the game of football. 

The Texans "have a good quarterback in Watson," Lyons said. "If Kaepernick can help, fine but stand up. Be a man."

Last season, when the Texans were in need of a quarterback due to injuries, head coach Bill O’Brien was asked if Kaepernick had been discussed. O’Brien said the team discusses everybody.

On Thursday, just a day after the free agency period officially opened, the team introduced new offensive linemen Zach Fulton, Seantrel Henderson and Senio Kelemete, and cornerback Aaron Colvin.