DT D.J. Reader
D.J. Reader may not be Houston’s biggest, most marketable name. He may not play the most snaps. He may not be a familiar character on Twitter highlight reels, nor will his stats win over fans looking for unearthly Aaron Donald-type numbers.
However, if there is any Texans defender worthy of a Pro-Bowl selection, it’s Reader. In a post-J.J. Watt world, he may be their best defender. The fourth-year Clemson product is a force. According to Pro Football Focus, he is the team’s best player, with an elite 90.2 grade and unearthly 90.3 run-stuff rating.
On the year, Reader has 27 combined tackles, 2.5 sacks, five tackles for loss and four QB hits. While his numbers may not scream Pro Bowler, his effect on the Texans’ defense and film does. Reader is a consistent, bludgeoning force in the interior and worthy of recognition.
Honorable mentions
S Justin Reid, RB Carlos Hyde, OLB Whitney Mercilus, ILB Benardrick McKinney, ILB Zach Cunningham, RT Tytus Howard.