The theme for the 2020 Houston Texans roster is DTS: dependable, tough, smart. Coach and general manager Bill O’Brien has formed the roster with that concept in mind.
One player who embodies the DTS playing style is safety A.J. Moore.
“A.J. Moore is when we describe ‘DTS’ – dependable, tough, smart – that’s what he is,” O’Brien said. “He embraces his role. He loves football. He loves being on the team. It’s just a really good guy.”
Moore, a former 2018 undrafted free agent who caught on with the New England Patriots until the end of his rookie preseason, has played 32 games for Houston. The former Ole Miss product has collected 25 tackles, a tackle for loss, and a fumble recovery for the Texans.
The 24-year-old didn’t see a single defensive snap in his rookie year, playing 344 for the Texans. However, last year, Moore, while still logging 327 special teams snaps, played 20 defensive snaps for Houston.
Free agent safety Eric Murray sees the energy Moore brings on defense, and calls it “infectious.” Murray also sees Moore ready to take the next step in his development.
“He’s been doing a good job getting the defense down,” said Murray. “From what I know, he was a standout special teams player last year, so it looks like he’s ready to take on a little bit of a different role — still contribute on special teams but also contribute on defense and stuff like that too.”
The Texans have a solid defensive backfield with Justin Reid leading the charge along with Murray slated to be the starter and Jaylen Watkins and Moore in support roles.
Moore’s dependable play on special teams has warranted him more action on the defensive side, and it could pay off for all parties involved in 2020.
“He’s a really good player,” said O’Brien. “He does a lot for us on special teams. He fills in on defense. He’s got leadership qualities. Awesome guy.”
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