Enough of training camp has transpired for coaches to get a feel for their personnel and the composition of their roster.
Houston Texans defensive coordinator shared with reporters Aug. 26 his three defenders who have stood out to him at this point in training camp.
1. OLB Jacob Martin
The former Seattle Seahawks 2018 sixth-round pick is actually having his first training camp with the Texans. Remember: the Jadeveon Clowney trade occurred at the end of preseason last year. Martin had to be a quick study to get ready and help Houston, which he did with 3.5 sacks for the year.
“He’s a guy that we ask to do multiple jobs,” Weaver said. “He rushes off the edge. He drops into coverage. He’s a guy that can absolutely be a playmaker for us on defense.”
2. ILB Zach Cunningham
The former 2017 second-round pick would have collected his first Pro Bowl season last year, but could only get as far as being an alternate, even though he led the AFC in tackles.
What has helped Cunningham stand out to Weaver is the same thing that helps the former Vanderbilt product standout to anyone: his athleticism.
“Zach Cunningham is a guy who day in and day out just gets the job done and makes plays that always leave you shaking your head a little bit,” said Weaver. “You’re like, ‘How did he make that play?’
3. S Justin Reid
Reid is entering his third season in the NFL, but the former Stanford Cardinal always carries a maturity and football intelligence that makes him seem like an eight-year veteran.
Considered one of the longest-tenured defensive backs on the roster with 31 games played, Reid is on the cusp of taking a leap in 2020 that should earn him his first Pro Bowl selection.
“You just talk about consistency, professionalism, leadership,” said Weaver. “He checks all of those boxes and he has the desire to be a great one. So, those are the first three names that come to mind.”
