(Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
The No. 1 pick of the 2006 NFL Draft has emerged into a Pro Bowl defensive end. His size (6-foot-6, 283 pounds) is enough to intimidate opposing offensive linemen and quarterbacks.
Selected to his first Pro Bowl as a starter last season after recording 12 sacks and 53 tackles. Had three sacks and one forced fumble in the team’s first ever appearance on Monday Night Football.
More than just a prototypical defensive lineman in a 4-3 style of defense. His presence on the field alters the success of opposing offenses. His talent and skills makes him a threat on any given play.
Williams improved several technical weaknesses from his 2006 rookie campaign, which resulted in 14 sacks for the former NC State All-American in 2007. Keeps his feet on the ground and uses short, quick steps. No longer uses long strides to get to the quarterback.
4) Dunta Robinson
The Texans’ star cornerback returned last season in week 7 from a potential career threatening torn right ACL and hamstring injury suffered on Nov. 4, 2007 against the Oakland Raiders.
Team finished with a 7-4 record upon his returned to the lineup. Considered one of the best cover corners in the NFL. Thrives in the Texans’ “cover 2” defensive back scheme. Presents an exciting one-on-one matchup against opponent’s No. 1 receiver. Ranks as one of the most effective “bump and run” corners.
Can get his hands in the right position to disrupt a wide receiver’s route. Robinson has the ability to watch his opponent’s belt buckle and take away four of five potential routes a wide receiver can run on a given play.
Quarterbacks tend to throw away from him during games. Recently, he became the first Texans player in history to be given the franchise tag.
5) Jacoby Jones
The third-round draft pick out of Lane College in 2007 impacts the Texans on special teams. Football is a game of field position.
In order for an offense to thrive, it’s the responsibility of special teams and the kick or punt returner to give the offense great field position and protect the football.
In 2008, Jones averaged 12.1 yard per punt return on 32 returns. He ran back two punts for touchdowns and recorded six returns of 20+ yards and two for 40+ yards. His longest return was for 73 yards.
Was susceptible to fumbles at times, but overall, proved to be a valuable commodity in establishing solid field position for the Texans’ offense.
Honorable mentionees: TE Owen Daniels, LB DeMeco Ryans, QB Matt Schaub, OL Chester Pitts
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