Gary Kubiak has described JJ Watt's aims for the 2013 NFL season as "tremendous expectations".

The 2012 defensive player of the year recently revealed that he wants to make 20 sacks, 20 pass deflections and 20 tackles for a loss during the coming campaign.

The Houston Texans head coach told reporters: "That's why he's a great player. He has tremendous expectations, but he's a tremendous worker too. I was asked before if I thought he could have a better year this year than he did last year, I think he can.

"You never know where the numbers are going to come from, but, as a player, I think he's growing because he understands [defensive coordinator] Wade [Phillips's] scheme to the T now.

"He studies the players he plays against every week, even more so now. He's been dominant in training camp."

Watt is expected to see his first pre-season action against the Miami Dolphins tomorrow.