Houston Texans: Four reasons why the team should run a 4-3 defense

The defensive line would be absolutely stacked

Let’s just take a second to see what this defensive line would look like. The starting defensive ends would be Jadeveon Clowney and Whitney Mercilus. In between them the Houston Texans would likely role with DJ Reader at the one or nose and JJ Watt would be at the three. That is a stand out defensive line.

Having Clowney and Mercilus working exclusively at end where all they have to do is get upfield, rush the quarterback, and hold the edge would be a boon to this football team. They do this a lot anyways in a 3-4 but, they’ll occasionally drop into the flat or man up on a tight end in coverage. Getting them in a three-point stance where they can just focus on what they’re best at would be incredible.

Reader and Watt would be manning the inside. We already discussed how this switch would be a great benefit for Watt. Not much would change for Reader, however, he may get more one-on-one matchups. He’ll still be a massive force in the run game and continue to eat up blockers for his partners across the line.

The backups would also be standout as well. It could also help them out in their careers as well as a lot of these players may be better suited for the switch. Christian Covington would slot in as an ideal three behind JJ. Carlos Watkins could back up either tackle position. Ufomba Kamalu, if he makes the team, could also be a force on the inside. Angelo Blackson could also make an impact here.

Duke Ejiofor would be the first defensive end off of the bench. Played defensive end in college so, this would save him from having to learn the different intricacies of the outside linebacker position. Any combination of Peter Kalambayi, Brennan Scarlett, or Joel Heath could roll in as backups. The Houston Texans could also pop JJ or Covington back out in a pinch as well.