Houston Texans: Evaluating 2017 defense, 2018 outlook by position
By T.A. Mock
Outside Linebackers
Pass rushers are just as valuable as quarterbacks in today’s NFL. Whitney Mercilus and Jadeveon Clowney are one of the better pass rushing tandems when both are healthy. However, that has been the biggest issue as they haven’t played too many games together.
Contracted for 2018: Jadveon Clowney, Whitney Mercilus, Brennan Scarlett, Gimel President
Free Agent: Ufomba Kamalu (RFA)
About a month ago, I wrote a piece on Clowney and how his star had fallen and subsequently risen back to super-stardom. After the season, this fact still remains true. Clowney is, without a doubt, one of the premier pass rushers in the league. He has the ability to bend the edge and get around tackles before they even get out of their stance. He can also stop the run like nobody’s business.
Here’s a quote that should stay in your mind:
"“It’s certainly on the horizon. Right now, I’m in an evaluative period in terms of studying the roster and studying the team and learning the players in terms of how they performed…but certainly a player that’s valued by the Texans organization, and in time, as we go through that process, we’ll arrive to that conclusion.”"
This quote from Brian Gaine shows where Clowney lies with the organization. A contract extension is coming, probably in the next few months. Gaine will probably have to eclipse the six-year $114.1 million deal the Denver Broncos gave Von Miller. Trust me, it’ll be worth the money.
Mercilus is an excellent partner for Clowney. He blends speed with great technique to get around the edge to the passer or running back. According to Pro Football Focus, Clowney graded out at 88.3 and is a Top 10 edge player. Mercilus likely would have cracked the top 25, at least, had he played the entire season.
Scarlett was a pleasant surprise playing in a pinch once Mercilus got hurt. He’ll be a solid back up next year for the Houston Texans. I also fully expect the team to bring back Kamalu. He is an absolute behemoth off the edge at 6’6,” 300 pounds. The team retains exclusive rights to the restricted free agent and could come back at a relatively cheap cost.
How these guys fit in a 4-3
Like I mentioned earlier, Clowney and Mercilus would slide in as rush ends. Clowney played end in college and being working in a 4-3 actually might fit his skill set better. Clowney would slot in on the strong side and line up outside the tackle and tight end. His ability to punish double teams would work well in that spot. Mercilus would then be placed on the weak side just like he did in college at Illinois. His speed would be a huge boon for the team off the edge there.
Scarlett could spell either guy in pinch. Kamalu would likely have to shift inside to better use his size and strength. The team, however, would likely need to pursue more traditional 4-3 ends to back up Clowney and Mercilus should this switch take place.
2018 Outlook Grade: B- Mercilus and Clowney are excellent. They keep this grade high while the back ups leave you desiring a little more. The front office likely looks to improve here the same as in the past with some UDFAs.