Houston Texans pass-rusher J.J. Watt has produced at a level where he’s considered a “nasty” player, but the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year wants to see that from the whole defense.
According to John McClain of the Houston Chronicle, Watt explained the type of mentality Houston must bring to the field. He said:
“The defense has to be a nasty unit. You have to have that bit of edge to you.
“You have to have the mentality that nobody is going to run the ball on you, and nobody is going to pass the ball on you. Now, we’re not going to be successful every single time, obviously, but that’s what training camp is for. Every single day we’re working toward that.”
Watt has established himself as a premier defensive player, but he reached a level seemingly beyond elite during the 2014 season. He racked up 78 tackles—including 20.5 sacks—10 pass deflections, five fumble recoveries, four forced fumbles and one interception that he returned for a touchdown.
There’s no question as to why enormous things are expected from Watt during the 2015 regular season.
Plus, now that running back Arian Foster will be sidelined for an unknown but extended period of time due to groin surgery, the Texans need a tremendous performance from their defense each week. Houston’s offense may struggle to put up points, so the defense can help change the outcome by forcing turnovers and granting favorable field position.
The Texans might not be able to atone for their offensive shortcomings, but it’s safe to expect Watt will show a little bit of that nasty and much-needed edge on every snap.