One would expect the rookie with nary an interception through his first 151 pass attempts to be among the top-15 rookies through Week 4, but beggars can’t be choosers.
At least the Houston Texans’ twin first-rounder gambit paid off in the form of defensive end Will Anderson, who has been a welcomed burst of disruption off the edge amid the team’s 2-2 start.
According to Mason Cameron from Pro Football Focus, Anderson ranks No. 13 among highest graded rookies through the first four weeks. The Alabama product has tallied a 76.7 grade using the analytics firm’s methods.
While Anderson may not be racking up the sacks, he has been making his presence felt on the edge, producing a 21% pass-rush win rate in three of his four games. A single poor showing may hold down his overall win rate, but he still ranks in the top 25 among all pass-rushers in that metric.
Anderson has generated 15 combined tackles, one tackle for loss, five quarterback hits, 1.0 sack, and a blocked field goal. The Texans have found utility for Anderson on defense with 169 such snaps and also on special teams where needed with 20.
One of the better examples of how Anderson has had an impact is across the defensive line. Fourth-year defensive end Jonathan Greenard has produced a team-high 3.0 sacks, a new personal best through the first four weeks to start a season.
Miami Dolphins running back De’von Achane topped the list with a 93.5 grade.
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