It was a different story altogether a year ago for Texans offensive guard Xavier Su'a-Filo.

The former second-round draft pick from UCLA was sidelined with a strained calf muscle suffered shortly after returning to training camp. Admittedly, he could have reported in better shape.

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This year, Su'a-Filo is a returning full-time starter who started nine of the 11 games he played last season.

Su'a-Filo has reported in much better shape this year heading into his third NFL season after an offseason devoted to upgrading his conditioning and endurance.

“I think it’s been good," Texans coach Bill O'Brien said. "I think that he’s a much improved player over the last year or so. I’ll say something about him, he came back this year and really nailed the conditioning test.

"I mean, went out there and really ran it well, which was good for all us to see and good for his teammates to see. I think he’s really started off on a good note here."

The 33rd overall pick of the 2014 draft, Su'a-Filo enters training camp as the front-runner to start at left guard.

There are scenarios where Su'a-Filo will be challenged for the starting guard job by Tony Bergstrom or rookie center Nick Martin, depending on which of them wins the center competition. For now, it's Su'a-Filo's job to lose.

Heading into the third year of his four-year rookie deal, Su'a-Filo is aware of the importance of this season.

Drafted in the second round two years ago, Su'a-Filo has reached something of a career crossroads. If he thrives in this third season, Su'a-Filo could establish himself as a mainstay on the offensive line.

"No doubt, it's very critical for me," Su'a-Filo said. "I have to get it done. This is my livelihood and my job and the team comes first."

If he's healthy and doesn't suffer nagging injuries, Su'a-Filo is likely assured of a starting job.

"Exactly, because being healthy is key," Su'a-Filo said. "Taking care of your body has been a big emphasis for me. If you're healthy, you're available and they can use you on the field. That's my job to make sure that I'm ready. My weight is about the same. I just moved it around."